WEST CHESTER, PA — In a case that has left a community in mourning, Imani Lewis, 28, of Richmond, Virginia, was arrested Friday following the tragic death of a 3-year-old child under her care. The Chester County District Attorney’s Office, in conjunction with the Tredyffrin Township Police Department, announced the charges of Involuntary Manslaughter and Endangering the Welfare of Children against Lewis following the incident on September 2, 2024.
The events unfolded at Wilson Farm Park in Tredyffrin Township, where police responded to a report of a missing non-verbal child. Lewis, who was employed as the child’s nanny, had contacted emergency services. A search ensued, leading officers to discover the unresponsive child in a nearby stormwater retention pond. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, the child could not be revived.
Investigations revealed that, during the time the child went missing, Lewis was reportedly distracted by her cellphone, as evidenced by video surveillance showing her engaged in phone communications while the child played unsupervised. The defendant has been arraigned by Magisterial District Judge Lauren Holt, who set bail at $100,000, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for September 26, 2024.
Chester County District Attorney Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe remarked, “This is just a sad and tragic case we all wish never happened.” Similarly, Tredyffrin Police Chief Michael Beaty acknowledged the profound impact stating, “This is a devastating death for the victim’s family. Our entire community has felt the effects of it.”
While the investigation continues, authorities emphasize that all charges remain allegations until proven in a court of law. Community members are urged to report any concerns regarding child safety to 911 and call Childline at 1-800-932-0313.
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