Two Florida middle school boys are facing serious juvenile charges after their own mothers reported them to police for causing over $50,000 in damage to a school library. According to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, 12-year-old Felix Cohen Romero and 13-year-old Bentley Ryan Wehrly first entered the Friendship Elementary School campus in Deltona during the day on September 13. Later that night, they returned and vandalized the media center, leaving books scattered, furniture overturned, and graffiti on doors and walls.
Deputies responding to a triggered fire alarm found broken glass and extensive destruction inside the library. Body-camera footage and photos shared on social media reveal the chaotic scene, while surveillance images show two masked youths entering the library, one wearing a Monster Energy cap. After the footage was released, tips came in from the public, but crucially, both boys’ mothers recognized their sons and contacted authorities.
The sheriff’s office confirmed that the boys confessed. Investigators said they entered the school during the day and returned at night to see the damage and cause more. The total damage to the media center is estimated to exceed $50,000.
Both teens face multiple charges including burglary, trespassing on school grounds, criminal mischief, and theft. While it is unclear how the case will proceed in juvenile court, the extent of the damage suggests serious consequences.
Public reaction has focused not only on the vandalism but also on the mothers’ decision to report their children. Many praised the parents for choosing accountability and hope it will guide the boys toward better decisions. Others worry about the long-term effects of a juvenile record on such young kids, though most agree that consequences are necessary.
Many readers have suggested restorative justice approaches, such as supervised cleanup, repairing the damage, public apologies, or community service to help the boys learn from their actions. This incident has sparked debate about where responsibility lies — at home, at school, or somewhere in between.
The mothers’ choice to involve the authorities is being seen as an example of tough but responsible parenting, especially when the easier option might have been to stay silent.
What would you do if your child was involved in something like this? Would you call the police or try to resolve it privately with the school? Share your thoughts and join the conversation.
