Deltona, Florida — Two middle school boys, ages 12 and 13, are facing serious juvenile charges after their own mothers turned them in for causing more than $50,000 in damage at a school library. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office confirmed details of the incident, which took place at Friendship Elementary School in Deltona.

---

The Incident

According to investigators, the boys first entered the school campus on September 13 and later returned that night. Deputies responding to a fire alarm around 1 a.m. discovered the media center in ruins — shattered glass, overturned furniture, scattered books, and graffiti covering the walls.

Surveillance footage released by the sheriff’s office showed two masked youths entering the library, one wearing a distinctive Monster Energy cap. The images were widely circulated, leading to a flood of tips from the public.

---

Identification and Arrest

The crucial calls, however, came from the boys’ own mothers, who recognized them in the footage and immediately contacted authorities. Both boys later confessed, admitting they had returned after dark to “look at the damage and cause more,” according to officials.

They now face multiple charges, including burglary, trespassing, criminal mischief, and theft.

---

Reaction

The case has prompted widespread debate online and in the local community. Many praised the mothers for taking a difficult but responsible step in holding their children accountable. Others expressed concern about the long-term consequences of a juvenile record at such a young age.

Community members have also suggested restorative justice measures such as supervised clean-up, repair duties, or public apologies as part of the boys’ punishment.

---

Conclusion

The vandalism at Friendship Elementary left behind tens of thousands of dollars in damage and a community shaken. While the boys face serious legal consequences, the decision of their mothers to turn them in has been seen as a striking act of accountability — a reminder of the role parents and families play in teaching responsibility and respect.