Three Teenagers Face Adult Charges in Miami Community Garden Assault

Three juvenile males now face adult charges in connection with the violent sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl that occurred last year in a Miami community garden. The suspects, aged 12, 13, and 15, were formally charged on Thursday for the June 2025 incident. Authorities report that the youngest suspect allegedly placed rocks in the victim's mouth to prevent her from screaming during the assault.

The victim's father reportedly heard her cries, prompting him to call out, which scared off the three assailants. While the boys were initially arrested a day after the incident, the decision to charge them as adults has just been made. The 13-year-old faces charges including sexual battery on a minor by a minor and kidnapping, while the 15-year-old is charged with sexual battery, false imprisonment, and lewd and lascivious conduct with a child. The 12-year-old suspect faces charges of aggravated battery and false imprisonment.

A witness present during the assault did not intervene, citing fear of being beaten by the trio. The victim's mother expressed shock, noting that her daughter knew the alleged attackers. The two younger suspects remain jailed without bond and are scheduled to appear in court on Monday.