Key Points Summary โ Man Attacks Girl
- Florida man arrested for battery and false imprisonment
- Incident caught on video at Tampa apartment complex
- Man accused girl of egging his apartment
- Video shows child screaming, neighbors intervene
- Suspect claims he wanted to take a photo as proof
- Sheriff condemns the act, calls it reprehensible
- Suspect released on bond pending investigation
Florida Man Arrested After Assault on 11-Year-Old Girl
A shocking incident in Tampa has sparked outrage after a man tackled an 11-year-old girl. Authorities say witnesses saw 43-year-old Marius Mutu pin the girl to the ground. The Hillsborough County Sheriffโs Office confirmed his arrest on battery and false imprisonment charges.
Deputies in Florida rushed to Allison Park Place around noon on April 19 after neighbors heard the girlโs desperate cries. Mutu, who believed the girl had egged his apartment earlier that week, took matters into his own hands.
Attack Caught on Camera, Child Screams for Help
Video footage shows Mutu pinning the girl to the ground while she screams for help. One bystander stepped in and tried to pull him off. The girl cried, โPlease, I wasnโt doing anything. I swear on my life. Help me.โ
Neighbors were horrified. Hannah Noel, who lives in the complex, said, โAs a mom, it makes me sick to my stomach.โ
Man attacks girl: Mutu Claims He Was Gathering Evidence
Mutu later claimed he wanted to take a photo of the girl to report her to building management. Despite his explanation, deputies arrested him at the scene.
He was booked and released later that day on a $6,000 bond. Meanwhile, investigators continue reviewing the evidence.
Sheriffโs Office Denounces the Assault
Sheriff Chad Chronister issued a strong condemnation of Mutuโs actions. โThis behavior is not only unacceptable, itโs reprehensible,โ he stated.
As a result, the sheriff emphasized the importance of protecting children. โThis child endured a terrifying and traumatic experience at the hands of someone who acted recklessly,โ he added.
Community Demands Justice and Safety
The incident has stirred concern throughout the neighborhood. Residents have called for better safety protocols and faster emergency response at the complex.
In addition, child advocacy groups have rallied in support of the victim and her family, demanding accountability.
Legal Action Moving Forward
Authorities have charged Mutu with battery and false imprisonment. If found guilty, he faces significant jail time and possible civil penalties.
Furthermore, the Hillsborough County Sheriffโs Office assured the public they would provide updates as new information becomes available.
Public Outcry Grows as Video Goes Viral
The disturbing footage has gone viral across social media. Consequently, many users are calling for stricter penalties in cases involving children.
As the case develops, the Tampa community continues to stand behind the young victim. Residents say they wonโt rest until justice is served.
