A Florida man faces serious charges after allegedly berating and physically abusing a child for nearly 30 minutes over a missing couch cushion, authorities say.
Lance Rachel Sr., 42, was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse and assault by strangulation. He was booked into the Osceola County Jail following an investigation by the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident reportedly occurred on December 7 at a home in Kissimmee, Florida, although it was not reported until several days later. Agents began their investigation on Dec. 11 and discovered disturbing details of the abuse, he said FOX 13.
According to officials, Rachel Sr. became enraged when he discovered that a couch cushion had been displaced, accusing the boy of lying and responding with what officers described as “malicious” punishment.
For 28 minutes, Rachel Sr. allegedly yelled obscenities at the boy while physically abusing him. Officers reported the boy was hit with a belt more than 50 times, choked and subjected to a barrage of derogatory names and insults.
At one point during the ordeal, Rachel Sr. allegedly threatened to break the boy’s jaw. Parts of the incident were captured on home surveillance cameras, which became crucial evidence in the case.
On December 16, officers interviewed Kimberly Rachel, 35, who confirmed the incident occurred. She was later arrested and charged with failure to report known child abuse.
The sheriff’s office has not released any further details about the boy’s condition or its current security measures, but the case has sparked outrage and calls for justice within the community.
Authorities urge anyone who is aware of abuse to report it immediately to help protect vulnerable people. “Child abuse is a serious crime and our office is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children in our community,” the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
Lance Rachel Sr. remains in custody as the investigation continues. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in recognizing and reporting child abuse.