Man Admits Abusing Impaired Burlington Co. Girl He Was Caregiver For

BURLINGTON COUNTY, NJ — A former home health aide pleaded guilty to physically abusing a 16-year-old girl while working as her caregiver in her family's Southampton home, officials said.

Edmondo DiPaolo, 36, of Pemberton Township pleaded guilty on September 16 to two counts of aggravated assault and one count of endangering the welfare of a child, Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw said Friday.

The victim, who was immobile because of a neurological condition, "has since passed away from causes unrelated to the abuse," Bradshaw said. She was also unable to speak, partially blind, and needed tubes to receive food and medication as she was unable to swallow.

Officials said DiPaolo broke the girl's leg while changing her diaper in March 2020. He also forced water and "a small stuffed animal" into her mouth, Bradshaw said.

DiPaolo worked at the family's home for seven months as an employee of Preferred Home Health Care & Nursing Services, Inc., Bradshaw said.

DiPaolo pleaded guilty in exchange for a 23-year sentence in state prison. He will be sentenced on November 18, Bradshaw said.