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Florida Firefighter and Wife Charged with Child Abuse

4/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Key information: Florida firefighter Joel Kohnert, 44, and his wife Jennifer Kohnert, 45, face child abuse charges.
Authorities allege the 12-year-old daughter was confined to a bedroom for years, with no bathroom access and washing clothes in a bucket.
The Department of Children and Families investigation, prompted by a school resource officer, led to charges, and Kohnerts are held on $100,000 bond each as their children remain in state custody.

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Story summary

Key information: Florida firefighter Joel Kohnert, 44, and his wife Jennifer Kohnert, 45, face child abuse charges.
Authorities allege the 12-year-old daughter was confined to a bedroom for years, with no bathroom access and washing clothes in a bucket.
The Department of Children and Families investigation, prompted by a school resource officer, led to charges, and Kohnerts are held on $100,000 bond each as their children remain in state custody.