Florida Father Whips Daughter with Electrical Cord and Punches Her for Refusing to Go to Church: Police Report

By Ronald Rodriguez Last updated Oct 1, 2025

Miami-Dade County, FL – A disturbing case of child abuse has emerged in Miami-Dade County, Florida, where a father allegedly used an electrical cord to whip his daughter and punched her repeatedly in the chest after she refused to attend church, according to police reports.

The incident, which unfolded on Sunday morning, has raised concerns about child safety and domestic violence within homes. Authorities were called after both the father and daughter placed separate 911 calls reporting the altercation.

An Intense Confrontation Over Church Attendance

According to the arrest affidavit, the altercation began when Renel Sanon, the 63-year-old father, entered his daughter’s bedroom demanding she attend church with him.

When the daughter refused, Sanon reportedly pulled the covers off her and punched her several times in the chest with a closed fist. The victim fought back but was then struck on the left upper arm with an electrical cord, causing a visible laceration.

“The victim stated that she began to fight back at which time the defendant grabbed an electrical cord and struck her in the left upper arm causing a visible laceration,” the affidavit states.

Police Response and Investigation Details

Police responded promptly to the home after receiving two emergency calls—one from Sanon himself and one from his daughter, who was calling from the backyard after sustaining injuries.

Officers arrived at the scene around 10:55 a.m. and found the daughter still in the backyard with visible injuries. Despite the laceration caused by the cord, she declined medical attention at the scene.

Sanon admitted to the police that his anger stemmed from his daughter refusing to go to church, which led to the altercation. Law enforcement arrested him without incident and he was charged with child abuse with no great bodily harm.

A local judge mandated Sanon to stay away from his daughter and set his bond at $2,500.

Key Facts About the Case

Incident Date: Sunday morning (time reported at 10:55 a.m.)
Location: Miami-Dade County, Florida
Victim: Daughter of Renel Sanon (age unspecified)
Accused: Renel Sanon, 63 years old
Injuries: Laceration on left upper arm; multiple punch marks on chest
Charges: Child abuse (no great bodily harm)
Bond: $2,500 with a stay-away order

Addressing Child Abuse and Reporting

This case highlights the critical importance of recognizing and reporting child abuse. Immediate intervention by authorities helped protect the victim from further harm. It also shines a light on potential religious or familial conflicts that can escalate into violence.

Experts emphasize the role of community awareness and available resources for both victims and families experiencing similar challenges.

“Early reporting and prompt police action are vital in protecting children from domestic violence and ensuring their safety,” said a child welfare advocate.

For more detailed information on this case, visit Law&Crime.

What Do These Incidents Mean for Future Prevention?

Incidents like this raise awareness about the need for stronger support systems for families in crisis and increased education on non-violent conflict resolution.

Schools and communities should be vigilant for signs of abuse.
Access to counseling and family support services can help prevent abuse.
Parents and guardians should be educated on the dangers of physical discipline.
Law enforcement and social services must work together to protect vulnerable children.

What do you think about this tragic incident? Have you or someone you know encountered similar family conflicts? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!