Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw announced that a 36-year-old man pled guilty to physically abusing a severely developmentally-impaired girl while working as her caregiver in the family’s Southampton home.

Under an agreement with the Prosecutor’s Office, Edmondo DiPaolo, of Daniels Avenue in Pemberton Township, admitted guilt in exchange for a 23-year sentence in New Jersey state prison. He entered guilty pleas on September 16 in Superior Court to two counts of Aggravated Assault (Second Degree) and one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Second Degree).

The Hon. Gerard H. Breland, J.S.C., scheduled sentencing for November 18 in Mount Holly.

The investigation revealed that DiPaolo broke the victim’s femur while changing her diaper in March 2020. Because of her condition, she was unable to swallow. The investigation further revealed that DiPaolo forced water into her mouth, as well as a small stuffed animal.

The victim, who was 16 at the time, has since passed away from causes unrelated to the abuse. She had a neurological disorder and was immobile. She was also partially blind, unable to speak, and received food and medication through tubes.

The investigation began after family members contacted law enforcement upon discovering an injury to her leg. DiPaolo worked at the residence for seven months as an employee of Preferred Home Health Care & Nursing Services, Inc.

He is being prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutor Stephen Eife, supervisor of the Special Victims Unit. The case was investigated by the New Jersey State Police.              

2022-76 Former Home Health Aide Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Assault