By Lookout Staff

May 11, 2026 -- Santa Monica police are looking for potential victims of a nanny arrested last month for physically abusing an infant and are offering advice on steps to take when hiring a childcare provider.

Carolina Cobian, 65, of Simi Valley, was arrested on April 15, eight days after SMPD detectives responded to a Los Angeles area hospital "regarding a suspected child abuse case involving an infant," police officials said Thursday.

"The victim was evaluated by medical personnel, and no life threatening injuries were reported," said Lt. Lewis Gilmour, the Police Department spokesman. "The victim is no longer in the suspect’s care."

On April 24, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed one felony count of child endangerment, police officials said. Cobian remains out of custody on bail and is scheduled to be arraigned on May 28 at the Airport Courthouse.

"Detectives are seeking to identify any additional families who may have hired Cobian as a nanny, childcare provider, or caregiver," Gilmour said. Anyone with information relevant to the investigation should contact police.

On Friday, police officials addressed concerns "a case involving a childcare provider can create for parents, caregivers, and families in our community" on a Faceboook post.

"While we cannot discuss details beyond what has been released due to the active investigation and the involvement of a minor, we want to remind families that there are practical steps they can take when hiring someone to care for a child, elderly family member, or vulnerable adult."

Police officials encourage families to "conduct thorough reference checks, verify prior employment, use reputable screening services when possible, and speak directly with former families or employers.

"Parents and guardians should also consider unannounced check-ins, clear written expectations, and age-appropriate conversations with children about how to report if something feels wrong or unsafe.

"Possible warning signs may include unexplained injuries, sudden changes in behavior, fearfulness around a caregiver, reluctance to be left alone, or explanations that do not match the circumstances," officials said.

Any immediate safety concern or suspected child abuse should be reported as soon as possible. "You do not need proof to make a report," officials said.

If a child is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. In Los Angeles County, suspected child abuse or neglect can also be reported to the Child Protection Hotline at 1-800-540-4000, which receives reports 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

"Our priority is the safety of children and families, and we will continue to investigate this matter carefully and thoroughly," officials said.

Anyone with information related to the case, or any family who previously employed Cobian and has concerns about their child’s care, is encouraged to contact Detective Lizette Hardgrave at Lizette.Hardgrave@santamonica.gov or Detective Sergeant George Burciaga at George.Burciaga@santamonica.gov.