A Florida father is facing serious criminal charges after allegedly choking and beating his teenage son with an extension cord when the boy simply said he was hungry. Alex Romero-Padilla, 31, was arrested following an incident at a home in Hialeah where his 13-year-old son reported being grabbed by the neck, thrown to the ground, and whipped with a brown extension cord.
Background
According to a probable cause arrest affidavit, law enforcement responded to the 100 block of W. 6th Street in Hialeah for an assault call. The 13-year-old victim told investigators he woke up around 9 a.m. and began watching TikTok videos on his phone.
The boy stated he told his father he was hungry and wanted food. Romero-Padilla allegedly reacted by yelling at the teen, grabbing him by the neck, and throwing him to the ground. The father then reportedly struck the boy multiple times with the extension cord.
The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Medical personnel documented bruising around the boy’s neck and arms, as well as distinct lash marks on his back, right arm, and thigh, consistent with the allegations in the affidavit.
The Charges
Romero-Padilla has been charged with aggravated child abuse. Following his arrest, he was transported to the Miami-Dade County Jail, where he remains in custody under an immigration hold.
During questioning after receiving his Miranda rights, Romero-Padilla admitted to administering what he described as "corporal punishment" by whipping his son with the cord. He told police he did not have "good communication" with his son and expressed frustration over the boy’s failure to follow house rules.
The father also cited previous incidents as contributing factors to his anger, alleging that his son had gone out with friends without permission and had taken approximately $20 from his wallet. Romero-Padilla stated he became upset when the teen "smirked" while he was attempting to correct his behavior.
Key Takeaways
- Alex Romero-Padilla, 31, is charged with aggravated child abuse in Hialeah, Florida.
- The 13-year-old victim reported being choked, thrown to the ground, and beaten with an extension cord after asking for food.
- Hospital records confirm bruising on the neck and arms, along with lash marks on the back, arm, and thigh.
- The suspect admitted to using the cord for "corporal punishment" but cited communication breakdowns and prior disciplinary issues as triggers.
- Romero-Padilla is currently held at Miami-Dade County Jail under an immigration hold.
What's Next
Romero-Padilla’s next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 14. The case remains under investigation by local law enforcement in Hialeah, with charges pending adjudication in the Florida court system.
The outcome of the Sept. 14 hearing will likely determine bail status and further legal proceedings regarding the aggravated child abuse charge. Investigators continue to review the details of the domestic incident as reported in the initial affidavit.