A Florida mother is facing murder charges after police discovered the body of her 6-year-old son in their home during a welfare check, in a case investigators say may involve religious delusion and mental illness.
Rhonda Paulynice, 41, was arrested on May 30 after St. Lucie County deputies arrived at her home for a wellness check. Her son, Ra’Myl, had been absent from school for more than two weeks, prompting concern from school officials.
According to an arrest affidavit obtained by ABC News, Paulynice initially told deputies she had simply “not put him back in school.”
She later led them into a bedroom where the child was found wrapped in fabric with only his face exposed. Authorities said it was immediately apparent the boy was deceased.
Paulynice allegedly told investigators she had been receiving messages from “God” or “Father,” and was not in control of her own body, which she referred to as her “vessel.” She stated she believed her son was being controlled by a demonic spirit or an “enemy,” and that she was instructed to “exorcise” it by suffocating him on May 18.
The disturbing affidavit further alleges Paulynice moved her son’s body to another bed after the killing, wrapped him in his favorite blanket, and checked on him daily. She reportedly blew warm air on his face and looked for signs of life, despite admitting she knew he had died.
Authorities charged Paulynice with second-degree murder and failure to report a death. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges as the investigation continues.
Paulynice also reportedly spoke of “resetting her life” and claimed she had been “put in a position” where she had to take her son’s life, echoing statements consistent with a possible psychotic episode or religious delusion.
Legal experts say the case could prompt debate over mental illness defenses and parental fitness, particularly given the nature of the alleged motivation.
Ra’Myl’s tragic death underscores ongoing concerns about the intersection of untreated mental illness, religious extremism, and child welfare, with authorities now examining the mother’s mental health history.
Paulynice remains in custody. A court date has not yet been set.
