March 29, 2024

Local baby-sitter charged with child endangerment

Sara  L. Stepanek, 52, of Newton was charged with child endangerment for allegedly dropping a 10-month-old infant boy while babysitting him March 7.

Police investigated the incident after being notified by the Iowa Department of Human Services. According to Newton police, Stepanek called the infant’s mother at approximately 9 a.m. March 7 and told her there was a medical issue involving her son. Stepanek also told the mother the boy had been vomiting. His mother picked him up at Stepanek’s home, 412 W. Eighth St. S., and brought the baby to Skiff Medical Center. He was later flown by helicopter to Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines. It was determined he suffered acute subdural and retinal hemorrhaging.

Following the investigation, Stepanek turned herself in Thursday evening and was charged. She posted bond and is scheduled to appear in court at 8:30 a.m. April 30.