A Florida mother is demanding justice after she says a therapist abused her nonverbal son at an autism therapy centre in West Palm Beach. Police say the therapist used everyday therapy tools — including a shoe, racket and book — to hit the young child during a session. The incident has shocked the local community and raised serious concerns about child safety in specialised care facilities.
Here is a quick overview of the case:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Reylan Cortes-Garnier, 28 |
| Charge | Child abuse without great bodily harm |
| Location | Maximum Achievers, West Palm Beach |
| Date of Incident | February 20 |
| Victim | Nonverbal boy with autism |
| Bond | $7,500 |
| Next Court Date | March 29 |
What Allegedly Happened at the Therapy Centre
According to police, the incident took place at Maximum Achievers. The suspect, Reylan Cortes-Garnier, worked as a registered behaviour technician and had been working with the child for about a year.
Court documents say the abuse happened during a therapy session on February 20. Investigators reviewed surveillance footage that reportedly showed Cortes-Garnier:
- Throwing a ball at the child at high speed
- Taking off his shoe and hitting the boy with it
- Striking the child with a tennis racket
- Hitting him multiple times with a book
Police described the actions as “intentional acts of child abuse.”
Mother Noticed Something Was Wrong
The child’s mother, Diana Hernandez, said she became worried when her son came home with bruises and other marks on his body.
In an interview with local CBS affiliate WPEC, she said the first thing she noticed was that her son was shaking. Because he is nonverbal, he could not explain what had happened.
Hernandez requested to review the video footage from her son’s therapy session. She said what she saw left her horrified.
Doctors later examined the child and determined that his injuries — including bruises on his shoulder, ribcage and lower back, along with a bite mark — were consistent with physical trauma.
Facility Response and Arrest
Hernandez told the facility director she wanted police involved. She claims the director was initially hesitant. However, officers later reviewed the footage with the director.
The director reportedly told police that such behaviour is strictly against company policy and not part of any approved therapy or training plan. She also said Cortes-Garnier apologised repeatedly when confronted with the video evidence.
The therapist has since been fired.
Cortes-Garnier was arrested and charged with child abuse without great bodily harm. He later posted a $7,500 bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 29.
Impact on the Child and Family
Hernandez said her son has been traumatised by the experience but is slowly improving. She described the situation as deeply upsetting and said she initially hoped it was not true.
“I just want justice for my son,” she said.
For families of children with autism, trust in therapists and care providers is extremely important. This case has raised concerns about monitoring and accountability within specialised therapy centres.
Why This Case Matters
Children with autism, especially those who are nonverbal, are among the most vulnerable members of society. They often rely entirely on caregivers and professionals for communication and protection.
This case highlights the need for:
- Strong oversight in therapy facilities
- Clear reporting procedures for suspected abuse
- Immediate action when concerns are raised
- Ongoing training and background checks for staff
Authorities continue to investigate, and the legal process will determine the final outcome.
