Three juveniles—ages 12, 13, and 15—now face adult charges after the brutal assault of a 12-year-old girl at a Miami community garden in June 2025, with two defendants appearing in court without bond as prosecutors pursue maximum accountability.

Details of the June 2025 Attack

The victim reported leaving a friend’s residence on Northwest 3rd Avenue when she encountered the three suspects and a witness. According to arrest reports, the 13-year-old forcibly grabbed her and dragged her to the Green Haven Project at 1160 Northwest 2nd Avenue in Overtown. Despite her screams for help, the suspects took her to a couch inside the community garden. The attack only stopped when the girl’s father called out her name nearby, causing the perpetrators to flee the scene immediately.

A witness present during the incident confirmed the victim’s account to detectives. He stated he failed to intervene because he felt outnumbered and feared physical retaliation from the three suspects. His testimony corroborated the sequence of events and the victim’s description of the assault.

Adult Court Proceedings Underway

The 12-year-old faces charges of aggravated battery and false imprisonment. The 13-year-old defendant was charged with sexual battery on a minor by a minor and kidnapping. The oldest suspect, age 15, faces sexual battery, false imprisonment, and lewd and lascivious conduct with a child. Both younger defendants appeared in adult court Friday, where a judge ordered them held without bond until their next scheduled appearance. The 15-year-old had an arraignment hearing scheduled for the same day.

Community Garden Responds to Incident

The Green Haven Project issued a statement expressing deep sadness over the assault that occurred on their property. The organization condemned the behavior as completely contrary to their values of safety, respect, and community. They confirmed full cooperation with law enforcement investigators and noted they maintain perimeter security measures including fencing and protective barriers. The facility supports appropriate legal accountability for all individuals involved in the June incident, regardless of their minor status at the time of the alleged crimes.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about juvenile accountability and public safety in community spaces. The decision to prosecute these defendants as adults reflects the severity of the charges and the violent nature of the alleged assault.