Content warning: This article contains disturbing references and descriptions of physical violence and child abuse. Reader discretion is advised.
The Tel Aviv Magistrate’s Court released Irina Rimer from custody on Sunday, after she was arrested on suspicion of having abused a 3-year-old child while performing her duties as a nurse at the Reut rehabilitation hospital in Tel Aviv.
Rimer, a 53-year-old Ramle resident, was arrested last week, with investigators saying that the pediatric intensive care unit CCTV captured footage of her crimes, reportedly committed in late January.
Police submitted a further request to extend her detention on Sunday, but it was denied, and she was released. Her defense attorney argued that she does not pose a present danger to those around her, and the court has not yet clarified what offense she will be charged with. For these reasons, the defense argued, she was entitled to go home.
According to the case file, she lifted the sedated, ventilated toddler violently, held him by the hair, slammed his upper body, and then bent his legs in a way that resulted in the injuries.
The judge clarified in a Sunday statement that Rimer is still subject to further legal proceedings, saying that “if an indictment is filed, and she is convicted, she will be punished by the court.”
Detectives last week opened an immediate probe after a hospital professional filed a complaint flagging possible physical harm.
During the initial investigation, police said the child sustained the fractures during a medical interaction with the nurse.
Police collected material from security cameras that purportedly shows the incident and are examining whether the actions constituted intentional violence or unsafe, aggressive conduct during treatment.
Rimer, a nurse of about 15 years with no prior criminal record, was detained on suspicion of abusing a helpless minor and causing serious injury. Police noted they are also examining the alternative offense of negligent injury pending expert opinions and a full review of the medical documentation.
The child continued to receive care in the hospital while the investigation proceeded.
Shir Perets contributed to this report.