Louisiana Labor & Delivery Nurse Arrested for Infant Abuse

Louisiana Labor & Delivery Nurse Arrested for Infant Abuse

Monroe, LA — Authorities in Ouachita Parish have arrested Dustin Clark, a labor and delivery nurse at St. Francis Hospital in Monroe, on multiple charges related to the abuse of a 5-month-old infant.

Clark was taken into custody on September 16, 2025, and faces the following charges:

• Second-degree cruelty to juveniles

• Cruelty to juveniles

• Domestic abuse battery (child endangerment)

Incident Details

Investigators say Clark admitted that he “snapped” while feeding the infant, who had been fussy throughout the day. According to the arrest affidavit, Clark slapped the baby in frustration.

The following day, a family friend noticed the child’s condition and rushed him to Morehouse General Hospital, where doctors discovered a fractured skull. The infant was later transferred to Shreveport for advanced critical care.

Hospital Response

St. Francis Hospital confirmed Clark’s arrest and announced that he has been terminated from his position. The hospital issued a statement expressing shock and emphasizing that the safety of patients and families remains its highest priority.

Legal Status

Clark’s bond was set at $15,000. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges could be filed as medical reports and forensic evidence are reviewed.

Community Reaction

The case has sparked outrage in Monroe and surrounding communities, particularly because Clark worked in a maternity ward where vulnerable mothers and newborns relied on his care. Child protection advocates have urged greater awareness and vigilance to safeguard infants from abuse, especially in foster and adoptive settings.

Authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office.