Florida Mother Charged After Son’s Suspected Exorcism Death

Rhonda Paulynice of Fort Pierce, Florida, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder after her 6-year-old son, Ra’myl Pierre, was found dead in their home following a welfare check prompted by his extended absence from school. Paulynice reportedly told investigators she believed God instructed her to perform an exorcism on her son, thinking he was freed from demons when he stopped moving and not realizing he had died. Authorities believe the child was killed around May 18, with an autopsy pending to determine the official cause of death. In addition to murder, Paulynice faces charges for failing to report the death and altering her son’s body. Deputies had recently visited the home for a medical issue involving the mother shortly before the estimated time of death, and past domestic issues had involved both the mother and her sister but did not concern the child. The community continues to mourn Ra’myl, who was remembered as a well-loved and joyful child.