POLK COUNTY, Fla. – A Davenport man is behind bars following what Polk County authorities describe as a violent hate crime targeting a five-year-old boy. Andre Brown Jr., 33, was arrested Sunday after a nine-year-old girl in the home managed to text her mother for help, stating she was terrified as Brown allegedly beat the children.
When deputies arrived, they found a five-year-old boy suffering from extensive injuries, including a fractured right wrist and a contusion on his forehead. The child was covered in marks across his legs, arms, back, and stomach, which investigators say were consistent with being struck by a belt.
Two other children in the home also showed signs of physical abuse, including bruising on their limbs.
According to the arrest affidavit, the violence was sparked by Brown’s anger over the five-year-old’s perceived sexual orientation. Witnesses told investigators that Brown slammed the boy onto the ground multiple times.
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During questioning, Brown allegedly admitted to the physical assault, telling deputies he intended to “beat the gay out of him if possible” and that he would continue to strike the child because he believed the behavior could not be changed.
The incident has been classified as a hate crime, a designation that enhances the severity of the charges. During his arrest, Brown reportedly resisted officers, yelling slurs and pulling away as he was being handcuffed. He currently faces charges of aggravated child abuse and resisting arrest.
“This was a brutal and hateful attack on a defenseless child. There is absolutely no excuse for it,” Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said in a statement. “We will make sure justice is served and these children get the safety and support they deserve.”
Brown’s criminal record is extensive, including prior arrests for kidnapping, home invasion robbery with a firearm, and battery on law enforcement officers. He is currently being held in the Polk County Jail.
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