HIGHLAND, Calif. (KTLA) — A 26-year-old man is facing child abuse charges for allegedly torturing his 5-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son.
Antwone Rattler is charged with four felony counts of child abuse and cruelty to a child resulting in possible injury or death.
The investigation began when the mother of the 2 children brought the girl to the Highland Police Department after noticing bruising on the child’s back.
The girl had just returned from a weekend visit with her father.
The girl told detectives that she had been beaten for misbehaving.
Investigators say the girl was tortured almost daily.
She described being bound and gagged and forced into physically exhausting positions for extended periods of time.
Her 9-year-old brother told police he received similar beatings and punishments.
Rattler is already on felony probation for a 2011 conviction of child abuse.
Court records show his daughter suffered a bruised and swollen lip.
His son also had extensive injuries.
Rattler served 180 days, and part of his probation was to enroll in child abuse classes and to refrain from harming a child.
7 Comments to “Dad Accused of Torturing Two Young Children”
March 20, 2013 at 5:53 PM
I bet he loves his dogs and cats.
March 20, 2013 at 6:08 PM
Shouldn't use the word "dad" in this article. Just a sperm donor.
March 20, 2013 at 6:20 PM
This man needs some serious help, and should not be left alone with chldren. Chances are that he may have been abused as a child, however his behavior is totally unacceptable and must change. I feel sorry for the children in this case, they do not deserve to be treated like this and out help, they too may become abusive parents.
March 20, 2013 at 7:22 PM
Hopefully his kids don't grow up to be that way.
March 21, 2013 at 2:34 AM
Typical thug.
March 21, 2013 at 6:13 AM
This is a guy that wouldn't dare stand up to an adult. He's a coward and a loser.
March 21, 2013 at 8:19 AM
In my opinion he should not have visitation with these children. And if he does it should be at the police station or Sheriff's Office for a limited time. And only once a month if even that. Question is do these kids even want to see him anymore? If not then don't make them. That can be more harmful.