In a deeply disturbing case that has shocked a Florida community, a 41-year-old mother has been charged with second-degree murder after allegedly killing her six-year-old son in what she described as an attempt to “exorcise demons” from his body.
Rhonda Paulynice was arrested on May 30 after deputies from the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office discovered the body of her son, Ra’myl Pierre, during a welfare check at her Fort Pierce home. The tragic discovery came after school officials raised concerns about the child’s extended absence from classes.
According to Sheriff Richard Del Toro, deputies were dispatched to Paulynice’s residence following notification from a school resource deputy that Ra’myl had not attended Samuel Gaines Academy in Fort Pierce since May 14. Upon arrival, Paulynice reportedly directed deputies to a bedroom where they found the child deceased, his body wrapped in fabric with only his face exposed.
“In speaking with the mother, she believed she was being told by God to basically exorcise demons out of the child’s body,” Sheriff Del Toro told reporters. “When the child had stopped moving and basically passed away, at that point, she felt the child had been released of those demons and was waiting for him to basically come back at that time.”
Court documents reveal disturbing details about the circumstances surrounding the child’s death. According to the arrest affidavit, Paulynice admitted to investigators that Ra’myl died after she placed her hand over his mouth while he was “kicking and screaming” in bed. She allegedly told detectives she was not in control of her “vessel” – referring to her body – and claimed that “God/Father” had instructed her actions.
The affidavit states that Paulynice reported being kept awake at night by “dreams from God/Father detailing events which were going to occur.” She allegedly noticed changes in her son’s behavior and “believed him to be controlled by a ‘spirit’ and by an ‘enemy.'”
Investigators believe Ra’myl was killed on May 18, nearly two weeks before his body was discovered. After his death, Paulynice reportedly moved his body to another bed and covered it with his favorite blanket. She told investigators she had checked on her deceased son daily and believed that once the “demons” had departed, he would return to life.
Law enforcement officials noted concerning behavior during their investigation. Body camera footage obtained by local media showed Paulynice applying lip gloss while answering deputies’ questions about her son’s absence from school. In the footage, she reportedly told a deputy, “He’s going to go back to school. I’ll give them a call. I didn’t even realize that. I’ll call his teacher.”
The arrest records describe Paulynice as appearing “indifferent to her son’s death, the role she played in his death or her actions of not reporting his death.” Investigators noted that she went through “a lot of highs and lows during the investigation, from laughing at different times at the scene to crying,” according to Sheriff Del Toro.
Lt. Andrew Bolonka, spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, indicated that investigators are awaiting toxicology results as part of their ongoing investigation.
The community has responded with grief to the loss of Ra’myl, who Sheriff Del Toro described as a child who “just lit the room up, and was loved by everybody.” St. Lucie Public Schools released a statement expressing condolences and offering grief counseling and support services to students and staff affected by the tragedy.
“Our hearts are with the student’s family, friends, classmates, and all who loved and cared for him during this incredibly difficult time,” the school district stated.
Paulynice remains in custody on a $150,000 bond after being booked into jail on May 30. She faces a charge of second-degree murder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led authorities to discover the child’s body?
Deputies from the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office conducted a welfare check at Paulynice’s home after school officials reported concerns about Ra’myl’s extended absence from classes. He had not attended school since May 14, prompting a school resource deputy to request the check.
What is the timeline of events in this case?
According to investigators, Ra’myl Pierre was last seen at school on May 14, 2025. They believe he was killed on May 18. His body was discovered on May 30, when deputies conducted the welfare check. Rhonda Paulynice was arrested the same day.
What charges does Rhonda Paulynice face?
Paulynice has been charged with second-degree murder. She is currently being held on a $150,000 bond.
How are local authorities and the community responding?
The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation, awaiting toxicology results. The local school district has offered grief counseling and support services to students and staff affected by the tragedy. The community is mourning the loss of Ra’myl, who was described as a child who “lit the room up.”
What is known about the child’s school life?
Ra’myl Pierre attended Samuel Gaines Academy in Fort Pierce. School officials became concerned when he had been absent since May 14, which ultimately led to the welfare check that discovered the tragedy.
Are there any mental health considerations in this case?
While the article does not specifically address diagnosed mental health conditions, the arrest affidavit notes unusual behavior and beliefs expressed by Paulynice, including claims of receiving instructions from God and believing her son was possessed by spirits. Mental health evaluations would typically be part of the legal proceedings in such cases.
Reference: This article is based on reporting from The Scottish Sun, with information provided by the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office and court documents.
