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Putnam County, FL - The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office posted the mugshot of a 9-year-old boy after he allegedly brought a knife to Middleton-Burney Elementary School and threatened two classmates during recess.
The Facebook post, which included the child’s booking photo and arrest details, received widespread attention, drawing over 47,000 comments.
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According to officials, deputies arrested the child and charged him with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon without intent to kill.
He was booked into the Putnam County Jail and later released to a parent pending his court date.
The sheriff’s office says the decision to post the mugshot follows a policy in place since 2018, aimed at keeping parents informed and preventing repeat offenses.
The agency reports no repeat juvenile offenders since implementing the policy.
Under Florida Statute 985.04, juveniles charged with a felony are not automatically protected by confidentiality.
This allows law enforcement to release a minor’s name, photograph, and arrest report.
Families, however, may request that the mugshot be removed from public websites, and if the request is not fulfilled within ten days, civil penalties may apply.
Legal experts note that while the law permits sharing juvenile arrest information, posting a child’s mugshot publicly can have long-term consequences, including effects on mental health, schooling, and rehabilitation opportunities.
The sheriff’s office states the post will remain online, and the child’s family has the option to formally request its removal to comply with Florida law.