Sheriff Lance Bonds states that on October 7, 2016 Stone County Deputies were notified of an eight year old juvenile male who had disclosed bruises on his right arm to his elementary school teacher.  The juvenile disclosed that he had been "spanked" by his father, 51 year old Christopher Rada of Pleasant Grove, Arkansas.  

It was determined through DHS case workers that the juvenile had been interviewed and that the injuries on his arm and buttocks had been photographed.  DHS agents also stated that Mr. Rada is currently under court order not to use corporal punishment, stemming from a similar case involving this same juvenile.

In an interview with the juvenile male, he disclosed to deputies that the bruises on his arm and buttocks were caused by his father using the sheath from a machete to spank him.  During the investigation, Stone County Investigators interviewed the suspect, 51 year old Christopher P. Rada concerning the allegations.  Rada stated that he had not done what he was accused of however, evidence and statements contradict Rada's denial.

Investigators determined that the injuries to the juvenile victim went well beyond discipline, to the point of abusing the child.

Rada has been charged with DOMESTIC BATTERING IN THE SECOND DEGREE, a Class C Felony and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor Second Degree, a Class A Misdemeanor.