A six-year-old Miami girl managed to escape a potential kidnapping by using an unconventional weapon – her teeth.
Six-year-old Miami Girl Bites Attacker
The incident occurred while the six-year-old Miami girl, identified as Lyric was playing with her siblings in the courtyard area of their apartment complex, as reported by CNN.
According to the Miami police, the children noticed a white SUV parked near the building while they were engrossed in their play. Sensing danger, the siblings of the six-year-old Miami girl hurried inside, but she remained in the rear stairway of the apartment.
Moments later, a man identified as 32-year-old Leonardo Venegas, approached and grabbed the arm of the six-year-old Miami girl initiating a struggle according to the arrest report.
Venegas attempted to carry the six-year-old Miami girl away, but Lyric refused to be a passive victim. Displaying incredible bravery, she sunk her teeth into her assailant, causing him to release his grip and allowing her to break free.
The six-year-old Miami girl having escaped the clutches of her would-be abductor, immediately ran to inform her aunt about the harrowing encounter.
Her mother, Tisha McGill, expressed relief and emphasized the importance of teaching children to be cautious and assertive even when their parents are not present.
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Suspect Arrested
Using surveillance footage, the police were able to locate and apprehend the suspect two days later.
Venegas was subsequently charged with one count of kidnapping and one count of child abuse, specifically child abuse without causing great bodily harm. Authorities are urging any additional victims who may have been assaulted by Venegas to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
Officer Kiara Delva, a spokesperson for the Miami Police, commended the six-year-old Miami girl’s actions, stating, “She fought for her safety, which ultimately saved her from a potentially very dangerous situation.”
The suspect Leonardo Venegas is currently being held without bond at the Miami-Dade County’s Metro West Detention Center. He also faces an immigration hold, according to online jail records.
During his court appearance, which took place on Monday, Venegas pleaded not guilty, as reported by court records. The Miami-Dade Public Defender’s Office is representing Venegas, but they declined to comment on the case.
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