Two parents in Florida have been arrested after allegations of child abuse involving their minor child. The father is accused of physically beating the child, while the mother failed to step in or report the abuse.
On December 16, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office revealed that Lance Eugene Rachel and Kimberly Corene Rachel, a couple from Kissimmee, were taken into custody following reports of abuse received by law enforcement and the Florida Department of Children and Families.
The age of the child and further personal details have not been disclosed. The alleged incident reportedly took place on December 7 at the family’s home.
Authorities say that the father became angry over a misplaced couch cushion and accused the child of lying. He allegedly punished the child by shouting abusive language and physically attacking them for about 28 minutes. The child was reportedly struck over 50 times with a belt and also faced choking and derogatory remarks.
While the abuse was happening, the father is said to have threatened to break the child’s jaw. Some of the incidents were reportedly captured on the family’s surveillance cameras, and Lance allegedly admitted to the abuse during questioning by detectives.
The mother, Kimberly, was arrested for failing to report the abuse that she knew about, while Lance faces charges of aggravated child abuse and battery by strangulation.
Footage from the sheriff’s office showed both Lance and Kimberly being taken away in handcuffs. Sheriff Marcos R. Lopez emphasized that while some forms of discipline are acceptable, crossing the line into child abuse is a serious crime.
If you suspect child abuse or need help, there are resources available, including the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline.
