ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FL – July 29, 2025 — A second arrest has been made in the harrowing case involving the abuse of a three-month-old infant earlier this year. Detectives with the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office have now taken Danielle Auro, 27, of Port St. Lucie, into custody. Auro, the infant’s mother, is facing a Child Neglect charge as the investigation into the child’s extensive injuries continues.
This latest arrest follows the July 18 detention of James Longendyck, 33, who was charged with Aggravated Child Abuse Causing Great Bodily Harm. Longendyck is believed to have played a direct role in inflicting the injuries, which left the infant with multiple fractures in various stages of healing.
How the Case Unfolded
The case first came to light on March 29, 2025, when staff at HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital noticed suspicious injuries on the infant during a medical evaluation. Doctors identified several fractures, some recent and some healing, suggesting repeated trauma. Alarmed by the findings, the child was immediately transferred to St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach for specialized care.
The injuries were classified as severe and non-accidental, prompting a full-scale investigation by the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office. Detectives soon identified James Longendyck as a primary suspect, and he was arrested nearly four months later. Now, their continued work has led to the arrest of Danielle Auro, whom investigators believe failed to protect the child or knowingly allowed the abuse to occur.
Sheriff’s Statement on Latest Arrest
“This second arrest demonstrates our ongoing commitment to pursuing the truth and holding all responsible parties accountable,” said Sheriff Richard Del Toro. “Our priority is—and always will be—protecting the most vulnerable in our community.”
While Longendyck faces serious abuse charges for allegedly causing the child’s injuries, the charge against Auro suggests that she either knew about the abuse and failed to intervene, or was otherwise negligent in ensuring her child’s safety.
Child’s Current Condition
Officials have confirmed that the infant is now in a safe and stable environment, though the exact condition and location of the child have not been released to the public. Authorities are working closely with child protection services to ensure ongoing care and support.
Public Outcry and Community Support
The case has stirred widespread outrage and sadness across Port St. Lucie and the greater St. Lucie County area. Many residents have expressed horror over the nature of the injuries and support for law enforcement’s efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
Local advocates are urging the public to remain vigilant when it comes to child welfare.
“This child’s suffering could have easily gone unnoticed. We’re thankful someone spoke up and even more thankful that detectives followed through,” one advocate stated.
What’s Next
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and officials have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests or charges. Both Danielle Auro and James Longendyck remain in custody as the legal process unfolds.
Due to the sensitive nature of the case and the age of the victim, no further information is being released at this time.
If you have any information about this case, please contact the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-800-273-TIPS (8477).
To report suspected child abuse or neglect in Florida, call the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873. Your voice could save a life.
Leave a Reply