HERSHEY, Pa. — A former Central Dauphin School District nurse and her husband have been charged after a two-month-old baby in their care was found with multiple injuries, authorities said.
Taylor Peifer, 29, and her husband, Zachariah Peifer, 28, both of Hummelstown, face charges of aggravated assault of a child under six and endangering the welfare of a child, according to a criminal complaint filed by Swatara Township Police. Taylor Peifer is no longer employed by the school district, a CDSD spokesperson confirmed.
Police said the baby was discovered with bruises on the arms, chest, back, shoulders, and left leg, as well as healing rib fractures. The injuries were initially observed by a pediatrician during a routine well-visit, who advised Taylor Peifer to take the child to Penn State Hershey Medical Center.
According to the complaint, Taylor Peifer told the doctor the baby had pale skin and bruised easily. She also claimed the bruises had appeared in areas where the child was held and denied any illnesses or medical conditions that could explain the injuries. Doctors could not find a medical reason for the bruising.
Further examination at the medical center revealed additional bruises to the baby’s jaw, torso, and feet. Physicians concluded the injuries were diagnostic of physical child abuse.
Police said Taylor Peifer acknowledged she was the primary caregiver, while Zachariah Peifer occasionally held and played with the baby.
The couple posted $1,000 unsecured bail each and are currently free. They are scheduled for separate preliminary hearings on Feb. 10.
