9-Year-Old Accused of Brutal Rape and Attack on 5-Year-Old Girl

On November 17, 2025, a 9-year-old boy in Ohio faced charges for allegedly raping and brutally attacking a 5-year-old girl. The boy, whose identity is protected due to his age, appeared in Juvenile Court and denied the allegations against him.

The victim's mother, Antavia Kennibrew, argued passionately that the boy should not be allowed to return home, claiming his "behavior that caused him to do something so evil obviously started at home." She said the children's actions have "changed [her] daughter's life" and "stolen her innocence," and it's time for them to "start facing the consequences."

Despite the mother's pleas, the judge initially agreed to let the boy return home with an ankle monitor. However, the court later learned the boy's mother is hospitalized and his father is deceased, leading to an "unstable living environment." Ultimately, the judge ordered the boy be placed in emergency temporary care with the Cuyahoga County Division of Child and Family Services.

The boy's alleged 10-year-old female co-conspirator is currently on home custody as authorities determine if the two children are competent to understand the legal proceedings. Both children face serious charges, including attempted murder, rape, and kidnapping, and are due back in court in January 2026.