30 Minutes of Horror as Florida Man Accused of Child Abuse Over Missing Couch Cushion
(Osceola County Jail /Lance Rachel/Facebook
A Florida man is facing serious charges after allegedly berating and physically abusing a child for nearly 30 minutes over a missing couch cushion, according to authorities.
Lance Rachel Sr., 42, was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse and battery 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, though it wasn’t reported until several days later. Deputies launched their investigation on December 11, uncovering disturbing details of the abuse, told FOX 13.
According to officials, Rachel Sr. became enraged when he discovered a couch cushion had been displaced, accusing the child of lying and responding with what deputies described as “malicious” punishment.
For 28 minutes, Rachel Sr. allegedly screamed obscenities at the child while physically abusing them. Deputies reported that the child was struck 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. reportedly threatened to break the child’s jaw. Parts of the incident were captured on in-home surveillance cameras, which became crucial evidence in the case.
On December 16, deputies interviewed Kimberly Rachel, 35, who confirmed the incident occurred. She was subsequently arrested and charged with failure to report known child abuse.
The sheriff’s office has not released further details about the child’s condition or their current safety arrangements, but the case has sparked outrage and calls for justice within the community.
Authorities are urging anyone with knowledge of abuse to report it immediately to help protect vulnerable individuals. “Child abuse is a grave 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.
