YORK COUNTY, Pa. — A York City Police Officer has been arrested after allegedly sexually assaulting and breaking the bones of a one-year-old child.
According to Pennsylvania State Police, the Lykens Criminal Investigation Unit filed charges against Steven Cugini, 28. Troopers reportedly responded to a report of severe bruising on a 13-month-old in April.
The child was transported to Hershey Medical Center after childcare workers reported seeing worrisome injuries to police, and their injuries were reviewed by medical professionals, the Dauphin County Abuse Team and Pennsylvania State Police.
The investigation determined the victim suffered from broken bones, severe bruising and sexual violence, according to PSP.
When troopers interviewed the child's mother, she allegedly initially tried to claim that the 13-month-old's injuries were due to an accident with the family dog. After police questioned Cugini and then the mother a second time, they allegedly admitted that the injuries occurred after Cugini had given the child a bath alone. Both initially tried to deny that Cugini spent time alone with the victim, according to a criminal complaint.
Online court documents show that Cugini has been charged with rape of a child, aggravated indecent assault of a child and aggravated assault- attempts to cause serious bodily injury or causes injury with extreme indifference.
Captain Daniel Lentz confirmed to FOX43 that Cugini was an officer with the department.
Police Commissioner Michael Muldrow released in part the following statement:
"It has come to our attention a member of this department was arrested for an incident of alleged misconduct and criminal behavior, occurring in Dauphin County. Per our protocol, the individual has been immediately suspended as the investigation continues and the City looks to take the appropriate action."
Muldrow continued that he holds his officers to the "highest standards" and that if the allegations are founded, swift and definitive action will be taken.
Cugini was transported to a Dauphin County booking center, according to PSP. He has a preliminary hearing scheduled for May 1.