A couple from Pennsylvania has been arrested after police said their 4-month-old baby boy was badly injured and covered with bruises.
According to the Northern Lancaster County Regional Police Department, 26-year-old Jessica Oster told officers she became frustrated because the baby would not stop crying. Police said she admitted that she used “too much force” while pushing a feeding bottle into the baby’s mouth, which allegedly caused the child’s lip to split.
What Police Say Happened
Police said the baby was taken to a hospital on April 22, 2026, after doctors noticed serious injuries, including:
- Bruises all over the body
- Cuts inside the mouth
- A split lip
- Abrasions and swelling
Investigators said Jessica Oster first claimed she fed the baby and left him alone for 20 to 30 minutes before finding him injured. Later, police say she admitted she forcefully shoved the bottle into the baby’s mouth out of anger.
The baby’s father, James Oster, also allegedly admitted to hurting the child while giving him a bath. According to charging documents, he told investigators he tightly grabbed the baby’s head and pulled it backward to stop the child from slipping into the bathwater.
Unsafe Feeding Conditions
Jessica Oster reportedly told investigators that some bruises may have happened because of the baby’s bouncy seat or during bathing.
Police inspected the seat and found it dirty, soaked with urine, and smelling strongly of urine. Investigators also said the parents often left the baby alone in another room with a bottle propped up by a blanket for feeding.
Charges Against the Parents
Police charged Jessica Oster with:
- Aggravated assault (2 counts)
- Simple assault
- Child endangerment (2 counts)
- Recklessly endangering another person
James Oster faces:
- Aggravated assault
- Simple assault
- Child endangerment (2 counts)
- Recklessly endangering another person
The couple is expected to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on Tuesday.
Authorities have not confirmed who currently has custody of the baby. The matter has been referred to Lancaster County Children & Youth Agency.
