CORTLAND, N.Y. (WBNG) — Two more people were arrested in connection with an investigation regarding alleged child abuse at the SUNY Cortland Child Care Center, bringing the total arrests up to six.
Christopher Chapman, 29, of Homer, and Jennifer Eckert-Dennison, 54, of Lisle, were arrested recently on the following charges:
Chapman
Endangering the welfare of a child, a misdemeanor.
Eckert-Dennison
Failure to report child abuse, a misdemeanor.
The two were arrested following an investigation into alleged conduct that took place at the SUNY Cortland Daycare Center, troopers said.
Chapman was arrested on Aug. 31, after an investigation found that while employed at the daycare center, Chapman engaged in conduct involving a child that placed the child’s physical, mental, and moral well-being at risk, troopers said.
Eckert-Dennison was arrested on Tuesday, Sept. 8. This arrest came after an investigation determined that while working at SUNY Cortland in the Human Resources Department, Eckert-Dennison failed to report suspected child abuse happening at the daycare center.
Eckert-Dennison was a mandated reporter and was required to report allegations to appropriate authorities, which included the New York State Child Abuse Hotline, the Office of Children and Family Services, Child Protective Services, or any law enforcement agency.
Both Chapman and Eckert-Dennison were issued appearance tickets to the Cortland City Court on Sept. 14.
The total is now up to six people arrested in connection with the case, with four being arrested back in May.
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