Two Florida boys are facing serious juvenile charges after their own mothers reportedly contacted authorities over their alleged involvement in a school library vandalism case that caused more than $50,000 in damage.
On September 13, the Volusia Sheriff’s Office said two boys, ages 12 and 13, allegedly broke into Friendship Elementary School in Deltona, Florida. Investigators said the boys first entered the school during the daytime before returning later that evening.
Once inside, the boys allegedly caused extensive damage throughout the library. Books were thrown across the floor, furniture was damaged and graffiti was reportedly left on doors. Authorities said the boys later returned to the school to look at the damage and allegedly caused additional destruction before setting off the fire alarm.
Deputies who responded to the alarm discovered that a glass door had been broken and the school’s media center had been heavily vandalized.
Photos released by authorities showed books scattered throughout the library, damaged furniture and other property that had been destroyed.
Surveillance footage also showed two suspects entering the school. Investigators said one of the boys appeared to be wearing a Monster Energy cap, while both reportedly attempted to conceal their faces.
Their Mothers Came Forward
After the surveillance footage was shared publicly, investigators began receiving information from people who recognized the suspects. Authorities said the boys’ mothers also contacted them and identified their own children.
The Volusia Sheriff’s Office later announced that 12-year-old Felix Cohen Romero and 13-year-old Bentley Ryan Wehrly had been identified. According to investigators, both boys confessed to their involvement.
Authorities said the damage to the media center was estimated to be at least $50,000.
Charges Filed
The two boys are facing multiple allegations, including burglary, trespassing on school property, criminal mischief and theft.
Because the suspects are juveniles, their cases will proceed through the juvenile justice system. Further legal consequences will depend on how the cases are handled by authorities and the courts.
The case also drew attention because of the decision made by the boys’ mothers. Rather than keeping the matter within the family, they chose to contact law enforcement after learning what had allegedly happened.
Many people responding online praised the mothers for holding their children accountable and teaching them that serious actions can have consequences.
Some commenters also suggested that the boys should take part in repairing or cleaning the damage they allegedly caused, as part of learning responsibility.
For now, the investigation and legal process will determine what happens next. The incident has also highlighted the important role parents can play in teaching children about accountability and the consequences of damaging other people’s property.
