### Boys Charged as Adults Following Alleged Rape of 12-Year-Old in Miami Community Garden
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Three boys in Miami have been charged as adults regarding an alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl that took place last year. This troubling incident occurred on June 18, 2025, at The Green Haven Project’s community garden, with the boys, aged 12, 13, and 15, being indicted in February 2026.
According to police reports, the girl was walking home after visiting a friend in the Overtown neighbourhood when she encountered four boys, including two of the accused, Jusiah Jones and Nelson Nunez. Nunez is alleged to have grabbed the girl and dragged her to a couch located within The Green Haven Project community garden. Here, police state that Jones and Xavier Tyson restrained the girl, preventing her from escaping while Nunez allegedly assaulted her.
Eyewitness accounts provided to local news outlets detail the horrific scene. The victim reportedly pleaded with the boys to stop, saying it hurt her. In a disturbing turn of events, Jones is said to have placed rocks in her mouth in an attempt to silence her cries for help. An officer from the Miami Police Department described the alarming moment, stating that this act was intended to make the girl “shut up” as she screamed for assistance.
The assault reportedly lasted around 30 minutes before it was interrupted by the girl’s father, who, concerned for his daughter, began calling her name nearby. Upon realising they were about to be discovered, the three boys fled the scene. They were arrested the following day.
A fourth boy witnessed the incident but did not intervene, reportedly feeling outnumbered and fearing for his safety. Another individual present at the garden reported the occurrences to police, further aiding the investigation into the distressing affair.
In light of the incident, The Green Haven Project issued a statement acknowledging the tragedy that unfolded in their community garden, which had been inadvertently made accessible due to ongoing construction work nearby. The organisation expressed their heartbreak over the lasting impact this event will have on the young victim, stating, “I can only imagine the pain that a 12-year-old is gonna have for the rest of her life, knowing what occurred to her.”
Initially, the boys were charged with juvenile offences; however, following a grand jury indictment announced on February 25, they are now facing adult charges. Jones and Nunez, who were booked into the Metro West Detention Center, are being held without bond until their next court appearance. The court has placed charges on Jones for aggravated battery and false imprisonment, while Nunez faces charges of sexual battery on a minor by a minor and kidnapping. Tyson, the 15-year-old, is charged with sexual battery, false imprisonment, and lewd and lascivious conduct with a child.
The Green Haven Project reiterated their commitment to safety and community values in a statement, clearly condemning the actions of the boys involved. “Such conduct is completely contrary to the values of safety, respect, and community that our organisation works diligently to uphold,” their statement read. They also confirmed that they are collaborating fully with law enforcement during the ongoing investigation.
As communities react to the shocking nature of this incident, many are left wondering how young individuals can be held accountable for such heinous acts. The legal proceedings against the accused are expected to draw significant attention as the case unfolds.
In the meantime, support services for victims of similar crimes remain crucial. Anyone affected or needing help is encouraged to contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline or visit relevant online resources for assistance.
This deeply upsetting case serves as a reminder of the urgent need for vigilant protection and support for vulnerable individuals within communities.