A group of juveniles, including four who are only 10 years old, have been charged with attacking a mother and her young son near an elementary school in South Deering last month, an incident that drew national attention after video of the assault circulated widely online.
Chicago police said the attack occurred on the afternoon of November 17 near 106th Street and Bensley Avenue, close to Orville T. Bright Elementary School. A 33-year-old woman was walking with her children when a group of youths began harassing them and then turned violent, according to authorities.
Investigators said the woman was struck repeatedly as she tried to shield her children. She and her 9-year-old son were taken to a hospital for treatment following the attack.
Prosecutors have now filed misdemeanor battery charges against seven juveniles: three 10-year-old boys, a 12-year-old boy, and three girls ages 10, 11, and 13. Officials said all seven were released from custody and referred to counseling services.
The assault gained national attention after a cellphone video showing the attack was shared across social media platforms. The footage sparked outrage and prompted an outpouring of support from community members, some of whom organized efforts to help the family move out of the neighborhood.
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