Bronx man charged with multiple charges after allegedly assaulting 13-year-old boy

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Bronx, NY – Ishmael Francis, a 29-year-old Bronx resident, has been indicted on serious charges, including two counts of second-degree and third-degree rape, following an incident that occurred the night of September 18, 2024. The charges also include sexual misconduct, endangering the welfare of a child and fourth-degree larceny.

According to District Attorney Clark, Francis allegedly had an online conversation with a 13-year-old boy, which led to a physical encounter in which he is accused of attacking the boy in a stairwell after waiting for him to leave his apartment to collect trash to throw away. . The incident is said to have occurred around 11 p.m. After the attack, Francis allegedly stole the victim’s cell phone and fled when the boy’s family began searching for him.

The victim immediately returned to his apartment where the family called 911. He was then taken to New York Health + Hospitals Jacobi for treatment. The perpetrator was identified via digital communication and arrested on September 24, 2024.

During today’s arraignment before Bronx Supreme Court Justice Shari Michels, Francis was granted continued supervised release and is scheduled to return to court on January 7, 2025.

“This defendant is accused of heinous acts against a child who has suffered immensely,” said District Attorney Clark. “We are committed to ensuring justice for this young victim and providing all necessary support to help him recover from this trauma.”

The case has raised widespread concerns about the online safety of minors, prompting local authorities to review and possibly improve protective measures for children in digital spaces. Community leaders have called for increased awareness and preventative education about protecting children online.