A 13-year-old boy who allegedly killed his mother in October could be moved to a juvenile detention center soon, after a judge heard arguments and testimony on the matter on Thursday.
Derek Rosa — who is charged with first-degree murder — reportedly stabbed Irina Garcia, 39, at their Hialeah home as Garcia slept near her 14-day-old daughter. A decision could be made on Friday regarding whether he will remain at the Metro West Detention Center or be moved to a juvenile detention center, according to WPLG.
Corporal Cyrim Wimbs, a corrections officer at the adult detention center, testified that Rosa is “flourishing” while in protective custody. Officials told WTVJ that Rosa is the youngest of 34 juveniles in custody, with the others being 16 or 17.
READ: 13-year-old Boy Takes Pictures After Killing Sleeping Mom Near Her Newborn Daughter
According to the news outlet, Rosa has no view outside his cell, which has frosted windows. He can only play with staff due to safety concerns.
Rosa reportedly called 911 after stabbing Garcia multiple times in the neck. The teen allegedly told a 911 dispatcher that he sent pictures of his dead mother to someone he met online. He went on to tell the dispatcher that there was blood all over the floor.
“I took pictures and I told my friend about it,” he allegedly said in the 911 call. “Was that bad?”
According to WPLG, Dr. Gina Bettica testified that Rosa is autistic and has ADHD. She also claimed Rosa said he was suicidal after he was arrested.
A motive in Garcia’s murder remains undisclosed. Rosa’s trial is scheduled to begin in February. The teen’s attorney is Jose Baez — who previously represented clients including Harvey Weinstein and Casey Anthony.
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[Featured image: Miami-Dade prosecutors]
