Two Florida Teens Face Juvenile Charges After School Library Vandalism

Two middle school boys in Florida are facing serious juvenile charges after their mothers reported them to authorities for causing significant damage to their school library. According to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, 12-year-old Felix Cohen Romero and 13-year-old Bentley Ryan Wehrly first visited Friendship Elementary School 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 walls and doors.

Deputies responding to a triggered fire alarm discovered extensive destruction, including broken glass throughout the library. Social media posts and body-camera footage show the chaotic scene, while surveillance images captured two masked youths entering the school, one wearing a Monster Energy cap. Following the release of this footage, tips from the public led to both boys’ mothers recognizing their sons and contacting authorities.

The sheriff’s office confirmed that the teens admitted to their actions. Investigators said they had initially entered the school during the day and returned at night to assess and extend the damage. The total destruction to the media center is estimated to exceed $50,000.

Felix and Bentley now face multiple charges, including burglary, trespassing on school grounds, criminal mischief, and theft. While the outcome in juvenile court remains uncertain, the severity of the damage indicates serious legal consequences.

Public reaction has highlighted both the vandalism itself and the decision of the boys’ mothers to report them. Many praised the parents for demonstrating accountability, emphasizing that such actions could help guide the teens toward better choices in the future. Others expressed concern about the potential long-term impact of a juvenile record at such a young age, though most agreed that consequences are necessary.

Community members have suggested restorative justice approaches, including supervised cleanup, repairing the damage, public apologies, or community service, as ways for the teens to learn from their actions. The incident has sparked broader discussion about where responsibility lies—whether with families, schools, or both.

The mothers’ decision to involve law enforcement is being viewed as an example of firm yet responsible parenting, showing that addressing serious misbehavior directly can sometimes be the most constructive approach.