Florida Parents Charged in Child Abuse Case

Lance Eugene Rachel, 42, was arrested for allegedly abusing his child over a misplaced couch cushion, reportedly striking the child over 50 times with a belt and using severe verbal abuse during a 28-minute incident captured on home surveillance cameras. The abuse took place on December 7, 2024, at their Kissimmee home, but authorities became aware of it on December 11 when they initiated an investigation. Rachel's wife, Kimberly Corene Rachel, 35, was also arrested for failing to report the abuse. The Osceola County Sheriff's Office stated that Rachel threatened to break the child's jaw and referred to the actions as far exceeding acceptable corporal punishment. Both parents face serious charges, with Lance charged with aggravated child abuse and battery by strangulation. The identity and age of the child have not been disclosed.