Night Nurse Arrested For Not Feeding Child, Faces Felony Neglect Charges

A night nurse has been arrested on charges of felony child neglect in Florida. The Cape Coral Police Department arrested Kelly Rita Perrigo, a 62-year-old licensed practical nurse, following an investigation into claims that she had failed to feed a child with severe medical conditions under her care. 

The Allegations: A Pattern of Neglect

The child, who requires round-the-clock care due to liver failure, weight gain issues, and low energy, had been under Perrigo's care since February 2024.

The investigation was sparked by the child's mother, who became suspicious after being informed on September 14, 2024, that her child had low blood sugar and had consumed all of their nighttime bottles. This information prompted the child’s mother to review surveillance footage from the child's room.

Surveillance Footage Reveals Disturbing Pattern

Upon reviewing the surveillance video, the mother observed a troubling pattern of behavior. The footage allegedly showed Perrigo heating the child's bottle and attempting to feed the child for only 2 to 5 minutes before placing the child back in the crib with a full bottle. Even more concerning, additional surveillance footage appeared to show Perrigo placing an empty bottle into the sink, leading the mother to suspect that the nurse was emptying the bottles in the bathroom sink before entering the kitchen.

Based on the surveillance footage, the child's mother believes that Perrigo may not have been feeding the child any of their bottles since August 17, 2024. This extended period of alleged neglect could have severe implications for the child's health, particularly given their pre-existing medical conditions.

Failure to Follow Established Care Protocols

The case becomes even more troubling when considering the specific care instructions for the child. According to the mother, nurses were instructed to feed the child through a GI tube if they were unable to drink from bottles. However, the surveillance footage did not show Perrigo using the GI tube, suggesting a potential failure to follow established care protocols.

This alleged neglect of duty is particularly serious given the child's vulnerable medical state. The child's struggle with weight gain, low energy, and liver failure necessitates careful and consistent care, making any lapse in feeding potentially life-threatening.

Legal Consequences 

Following the investigation, Perrigo was arrested on February 5, 2025, and charged with felony child neglect. This charge carries serious legal consequences and could potentially end Perrigo's nursing career if she is convicted.

The case also raises important questions about the oversight and monitoring of in-home nursing care, particularly for vulnerable patients with complex medical needs. It underscores the critical importance of thorough background checks, regular performance evaluations, and robust monitoring systems to ensure the safety and well-being of patients.

While it's important to remember that Perrigo is presumed innocent until proven guilty, nurse.org will continue to provide updates during the legal process. 

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