Florida Firefighter and Wife Accused of Horrific Abuse of Adopted Daughter

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A Florida fire rescue lieutenant and his wife have been arrested for allegedly subjecting their 12-year-old adopted daughter to years of horrific abuse, including forcing her to soil herself in her bedroom and then clean up the mess. The couple, who are described as 'devout Christians,' are accused of locking the girl in her room at night, not allowing her to use the bathroom, and making her clean up her own waste with her own clothes and cleaning supplies.

Why it matters

This case has shocked the local community and raised serious concerns about the welfare of the couple's other adopted children. It also highlights the need for better oversight and support for adoptive families to prevent such extreme abuse from occurring.

The details

According to court documents, the abuse allegedly began around three years ago as a form of 'discipline.' The victim was not allowed to leave her room, even when she needed to use the bathroom, and was forced to urinate and defecate on the floor. She was then made to clean up the mess using her own clothes, as well as vinegar and bleach. The girl was also subjected to other punishments, including being forced to tread water for up to 45 minutes and write out Bible verses. Her adopted mother is accused of physically abusing her by pulling her hair, slapping her face, and kicking her.

• The abuse is alleged to have started around three years ago.
• The case came to light in February 2026.

What’s next

The judge ordered the Kohnerts held on $100,000 bail, and all seven of their children have been removed from their custody. The couple faces charges of child abuse without great bodily harm, and the husband has been placed on administrative leave from his job.