11-Year-Old Arrested In Shooting Of Two Other Juveniles, Parent Likely To Face Criminal Charges For Unsecured Firearm

According to a report from NBC News, an 11-year-old boy was arrested and charged with the shooting of two other juveniles—both of whom were reportedly 13 years of age. The incident occurred after a scuffle at a football practice in Apopka, Florida. The child reportedly got the (unsecured) firearm from his mother’s car. She is expected to face criminal charges. Here, our Orlando criminal defense attorney explains what we know about the case and the possible charges.

What We Know: Two Juveniles Shot After Fight at Football Field 

An 11-year-old boy allegedly shot two teenagers following a dispute at a youth football practice in Apopka, Florida. It is a tragic, heartbreaking incident that occurred at the Northwest Recreation Complex’s Field of Fame, later escalating to the parking area. Thankfully, neither of the two 13-year-olds were killed. The boy was arrested on charges of second-degree attempted murder. Apopka Police Chief Mike McKinley emphasized the concerning nature of such young individuals accessing firearms. The emergency call was received at 8:18 p.m., with officers on the scene by 8:24 p.m. While one victim was released from the hospital. The other victim remains in stable condition. 

The 11-Year-Old Obtained the (Unsecured) Weapon from his Mother’s Car 

Where did such a young boy obtain a dangerous firearm? A preliminary investigation indicated that it came from his parent’s automobile. The firearm used in the shooting was found in a box inside the shooter’s mother’s car, and it was not locked as required, according to Chief McKinley. No charges have yet been filed against the parent. That being said, Chief McKinley mentioned to reporters that the suspect’s mother would likely face charges for the failure to secure the weapon. To be clear, the parent—as well as the boy—are presumed innocent until proven guilty. 

Florida Criminal Charge: Unsafe Storage of Firearm

Florida takes firearm safety seriously—especially when it comes to preventing unauthorized access by minors. The state has statutes in place that make it a criminal offense to store or leave a firearm in a way that a minor can gain access to it if it is not securely stored or if it’s not in a locked box or container.

If a child under the age of 16 gets access to a firearm that hasn’t been properly stored, the owner of the firearm can be charged with the crime of “unsafe storage of a firearm.” The crime is considered a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida. A person—parent or otherwise—convicted of a second degree misdemeanor offense can face jail time.

Speak to a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orlando, FL

At The Baez Law Firm, our Orlando criminal defense attorney is a compassionate, experienced advocate for justice. We help clients solve difficult challenges. Contact us today for a fully initial appointment with an attorney. From our law office in Orlando, we provide justice-driven and solutions-focused legal representation throughout Orange County and all across Central Florida.

Source:

nbcnews.com/news/us-news/11-year-old-arrested-charged-shooting-2-teens-florida-football-practic-rcna118573