PALM BEACH, Fla. — On Thursday night, a new mother who had little experience entered a NICU unit and removed her three-day-old baby from a ventilator.
According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO), she then proceeded to stab multiple hospital employees as she made her way out.
The mother, Kendra Greene, aged 31, managed to flee the hospital with her newborn daughter, who was receiving treatment for under-developed lungs.
However, she was apprehended shortly after and charged with five criminal offenses. The baby was safely returned to Palms West Hospital by Palm Beach County Fire Rescue in stable condition, as stated in a news release.
PBSO deputies responded to the hospital following reports of a stabbing around 10:30 p.m. They discovered that medical staff had attempted to prevent Greene from leaving after hearing a “code pink” announcement, which indicates a child abduction, according to the arrest report. Standard protocol requires the staff to block the nearest entrances and exits to prevent anyone from leaving.
Court records reveal that the first victim was inside the NICU unit when Greene forcefully removed her newborn’s breathing device, the central line from the stomach, feeding tube, and other life-supporting devices. The victim pleaded with Greene to stop, but the mother pushed her away and reportedly uttered offensive words.
Another witness stated that they observed Greene rushing towards an emergency room exit while carrying something close to her body in one arm and wielding a large, serrated kitchen knife in the other hand. When this employee tried to talk to Greene, the fleeing mother slashed their right forearm.
A second witness, who attempted to block the nearest door, saw Greene leaving with the baby concealed under her shirt. As this employee tried to stop her, they were slashed on the right hand, according to the affidavit.
The fourth victim also made an effort to retrieve the stolen baby but ended up being cut on the side of her neck by the knife.
Greene left the baby with family members and fled, leading to a car crash. She then tried to escape on foot but was apprehended shortly after.
Upon taking her into custody, it was discovered that the 31-year-old mother had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and was experiencing a rapid deterioration, as stated in the arrest report.
Greene faces charges including neglect of a child resulting in significant bodily harm, two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, battery, and resisting an officer without violence.
Her initial court appearance was scheduled for 10 a.m. on Friday, and her bond was set at $302,000.
Palms West Hospital issued a statement to CBS12 News, expressing gratitude for the recovery of their staff members and stating that they were providing support and care for their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
The hospital also acknowledged the swift actions of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, which led to the suspect’s apprehension and the safe return of the patient. They confirmed their full cooperation with the ongoing investigation conducted by law enforcement, with their security team actively assisting.
