Grand jury in Phoenix indicts 14-year-old boy in rape of 8-year-old Liberian girl

Teen indicted in rape of 8-year-old in Phoenix

PHOENIX — A 14-year-old Liberian refugee has been indicted in connection with the rape of an 8-year-old girl at a Phoenix apartment complex.

Police say four boys, also from Liberia, lured the girl to an empty storage shed July 16 with the promise of chewing gum. Investigators say the boys restrained her and took turns sexually assaulting her.

The incident has ignited an international outcry after it was reported the girl’s father said he was ashamed of her. A family pastor later said that was a misunderstanding.

The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office said Saturday that a grand jury indicted the 14-year-old on charges of kidnapping, sexual assault, attempted sexual conduct with a minor, and sexual conduct with a minor.

The 14-year-old is being charged as an adult. The other suspects — ages 9, 10 and 13 — are charged in juvenile court.