Three young suspects—including a boy who was only 12 at the time of the incident—are now facing murder charges following a fatal attack on a 64-year-old man in downtown Jacksonville.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) announced the final indictment in the case on Thursday, capping an investigation into the death of Roger Borkum.
The incident began on Sunday, Oct. 19, when patrol officers responded to a call regarding an aggravated battery on Julia Street. Upon arrival, they discovered Borkum suffering from severe injuries sustained during a beating. He was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries four days later.
According to investigators, a witness who watched the attack unfold provided crucial descriptions of the group. This information allowed officers to locate the suspects within hours of the initial assault.
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While two of the suspects—19-year-old Marcavion Lacey and 16-year-old Robert Pope—were arrested shortly after Borkum’s death, the legal process for the youngest member of the group concluded this week.
On Nov. 20, a Duval County grand jury indicted Justin Curry, now 13. Police noted that Curry was 12 years old on the night the attack took place. All three are now charged with murder.
In a statement regarding the arrests, the Sheriff’s Office expressed the gravity of the situation for the community.
“This case is a heartbreaking reminder of how young some offenders have become and how devastating the consequences are for victims, families, and the surrounding community,” the statement read.
Officials closed their announcement with a direct plea to families, urging parents and guardians to utilize available resources and intervene in their children’s lives “before it’s too late.”
The JSO stated they are continuing to work with the State Attorney’s Office to secure justice for the victim.
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