13-Year-Old Who Stabbed Mother To Death Will Be Tried As Adult And Family Pleads For Second Chance
Prosecutors will indict Derek Rosa for first-degree murder after reviewing evidence that was presented to the Miami-Dade grand jury.
This indictment automatically places his case into the adult felony court system. Rosa will not be facing the death penalty, but he could face up to life in prison for his mom’s murder.
During a bond court hearing Friday, Rosa’s father and grandmother testified on the 13-year-old’s behalf hoping he would be allowed to go home and remain under house arrest.
In over 20 letters sent to the court, Rosa’s father described the teen as a respectful honor roll student. He said that the victim’s mother helped raise his son and that he was a good kid who was well-loved by his friends.
The father said he did not know what led to this incident, and added that after being in the military for 22 years, he had taught Rosa good values.
“It’s hard for us to explain how this occurred,” Jose Rosa said. “It’s difficult, but I guess what we are asking for another opportunity, a second chance to help him grow – put this behind him and say we have your back – we are here to support you.”
His father pleaded for a second chance and said that the grandmother would even be willing to move in with him to help with the teen.
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