Authorities Arrest 13-Year-Old Linked To Multiple Home Invasions In Detroit

A 13-year-old boy was arrested in the Detroit area after he allegedly broke into a dozen homes to target young girls.

Investigators suspect the 13-year-old is behind at least 11 successful or attempted home invasions in Pontiac and Detroit, some possibly dating back to 2022, reported the New York Post.

“He was targeting the homes of young girls,” Sheriff Michael Bouchard said. “It’s terrifying. Any adult would shudder at the thought, let alone a child.”

Authorities say he was wearing a mask and armed with a knife during the most recent incident on February 4, when a 10-year-old girl was choked in her bedroom until her screams drew her mother.

“In terms of physical injuries, thank God we have very little, but obviously the emotional impact, when you’re a child in your bedroom, the most safe and secure thing at home, there obviously has to be a process for them to deal with that trauma, that emotional trauma, that mental health. I think that’s going to be the biggest, ongoing thing,” Bouchard said, according to CBS News.

Officials added that the teen was identified through a circulated photo and is being held at a juvenile detention center, with his parent cooperating as possible charges await.

Authorities had urged local residents in Pontiac and Detroit to secure their windows and doors as the investigation intensified. That caution came amid uncertainty about the intruder’s identity after law enforcement initially believed the suspect to be older, possibly between 17 and 21.

A tip from a local community member, however, led to his capture last Thursday. According to CBS Detroit, deputies received a phone call from someone who recognized a photo that authorities had released, allowing law enforcement to locate and arrest the individual.