Victoria Anne Cranmer, a 25-year-old babysitter from New Jersey, wept during a bail hearing as her lawyer claimed that a Snapchat video showing a toddler touching her exposed genitals was an 'innocent moment' caused by the child's lack of understanding of personal boundaries.
Charges and Video Evidence
Cranmer has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child, manufacturing child sexual abuse material, and possession of child sexual abuse material. The 14-second Snapchat clip allegedly shows Cranmer sitting on a toilet with her genitals exposed while a young child touches her. Police identified Cranmer through her unique tattoos, which include 'boobs, a lightning bolt and a mushroom'.
According to court records, the investigation began on May 20 after a mother, referred to as Ms P, found the video on an iPhone that previously belonged to Cranmer. Ms P handed the device to police, who discovered several other Snapchat videos of Cranmer with the child.
Defense Argument
Cranmer's lawyer, Marissa Koerner, argued that the video depicted a moment that was 'blown out of proportion'. 'Anyone who has spent time caring for young children understands that children often have little appreciation for personal space or privacy,' Koerner stated. 'Young children routinely follow parents or caregivers into bathrooms, touch things, ask questions, are curious and fail to recognise ordinary social boundaries.'
Koerner added that 'children often engage in funny, spontaneous or strange behaviour that adults record because the moment is memorable or humorous.' The video allegedly showed Cranmer laughing during the incident.
Court Ruling
At the bail hearing in Ocean County, New Jersey, Judge Kenneth Palmer ruled that Cranmer must remain in custody while the 'bizarre' and 'troubling' incident is further investigated. Cranmer cried as the judge delivered his decision.
Impact on Children
Another mother, referred to as Ms H, told police that her young son's behaviour changed after being cared for by Cranmer, including developing a dislike for baths. Both potential victims are believed to be around two years old. Court documents have been heavily redacted to protect their identities.
Cranmer lived in Ms P's home and frequently babysat her child as well as Ms H's son. Following the allegations, Cranmer was arrested and taken to Ocean County Jail in Toms River, New Jersey.
