DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. (WJW) – A Pennsylvania police officer has been arrested on charges of raping and abusing a 1-year-old child.
Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) arrested Steven Kyle Cugini, 28, on Tuesday. Cugini is a York city police officer.
According to a report from PSP, police responded to a report of “severe bruising to a 13-month-old child” last week.
An investigation by the PSP and the Dauphin County Child Abuse Team found the baby “suffered broken bones, severe bruising, and was the victim of sexual violence,” according to the report.
The report says the crimes happened between April 11 and April 15.
According to WHP, Cugini blamed the injuries on a fall and a family dog, charging documents stated.
After being questioned by police, WHP reports that Cugini admitted the injuries happened while the child was alone in his care.
PSP arrested Cugini Tuesday. He’s being held in the Dauphin County Jail on a $200,000 bond, according to jail records.
The York City Police Commissioner released a statement on the arrest.
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.
As everyone knows, I will always be the first to fight and advocate for our people; but they also know (1) how I feel about kids, and (2) that I hold my Officers to the highest of standards (when it comes to representing this Department and engaging with the community). And if these allegations are founded, trust and believe I’ll be the first to take swift and definitive action against them.
Michael Muldrow, Commissioner, York City Police
There is no word on the condition of the child, who was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Investigators have not detailed Cugini’s connection to the victim.