INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FL– A horrifying case of domestic child abuse has emerged out of Indian River County, Florida, where deputies say a father viciously beat his young son until he suffered a seizure — and then continued hitting him.
According to the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred on July 24 when authorities responded to a domestic violence call from a residence in Vero Beach. The call was placed by a neighbor who reportedly overheard disturbing screaming and thuds coming from the home.
Graphic Details in Arrest Report
Upon arrival, deputies discovered the young boy, around 10 years old, unresponsive and convulsing on the floor. The father, identified as Dion Johnson, allegedly admitted during police questioning that he “lost control” after his son “wouldn’t listen.”
According to the arrest affidavit, Johnson struck the boy multiple times with a closed fist. Witnesses said the child eventually collapsed, showing signs of a seizure — but Johnson “continued to strike him in the back and side” even as he convulsed.
- The boy was rushed to a local hospital and has since regained consciousness
- Medical staff confirmed the child suffered a seizure due to physical trauma
- Bruising and red marks were consistent with blunt-force injuries
“This is one of the more severe cases of child abuse we’ve seen in recent years,” said Sheriff Eric Flowers. “There is absolutely no justification for this kind of violence against a child.”
Suspect in Custody Without Bond
Dion Johnson was immediately arrested at the scene and is currently being held without bond in the Indian River County Jail. He faces multiple felony charges including:
- Aggravated child abuse
- Battery causing great bodily harm
- Child endangerment
The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) has opened its own parallel investigation and is working to determine whether the child can be placed with a relative or guardian.
Community and Officials Speak Out
The case has prompted a wave of anger and sorrow from community members and child advocacy groups across Florida.
“This is precisely why we need better prevention programs and education around trauma-informed parenting,” said Jessica Diaz, a spokesperson for Florida Children First, a nonprofit focused on child welfare.
Social workers have emphasized the importance of reporting suspected abuse early, noting that neighbors’ actions likely saved the child’s life.
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