A Florida woman is facing serious charges after her 6-year-old son was found dead at their home in Fort Pierce. Rhonda Paulynice allegedly told police she was trying to “exorcise demons out of” her son’s body.
Discovery of the Child’s Death
On the morning of Friday, May 30, deputies arrived at Paulynice’s home for a welfare check. The child, Ra’myl Pierre, had missed school for over two weeks, raising concerns from a school resource officer.
Upon arrival, deputies found the boy deceased, lying on his bed. Authorities believe Ra’myl died on May 18, but due to the condition of the body, the exact cause and manner of death are still under investigation.
The Alleged Exorcism
According to Sheriff Richard Del Toro, Paulynice told investigators she believed she was commanded by God to perform an exorcism on her son to remove demons. When Ra’myl stopped moving and passed away, she reportedly thought he had been freed from these demons and was waiting for him to come back.
During the investigation, Paulynice showed varying emotions, at times laughing and then crying, according to the sheriff.
Charges and Background
Paulynice was arrested on May 30 and charged with second-degree murder, failure to report a death, and willfully moving or touching the body. She is being held on a $150,000 bond.
Before this tragedy, deputies had responded to the home several times for other issues involving Paulynice and her family but not related to the child. A medical call concerning Paulynice was made on May 17.
Community Reaction and Tribute
Sheriff Del Toro shared that Ra’myl was a bright and loved child who “lit up the room” and was cherished by classmates and teachers alike. The sheriff offered condolences to the family and community as the investigation continues.