Actions

3 Michigan boys charged with raping two younger boys in garage

Posted
and last updated

Authorities say three boys ages 11 to 13 are charged with sexually assaulting two younger boys at a southern Michigan garage that police suspect was burned to destroy evidence.

The suspects are being held at the Calhoun County Juvenile Home on juvenile first-degree criminal sexual conduct charges. They're accused of repeatedly assaulting the 6- and 8-year-olds in Battle Creek.

The Battle Creek Enquirer reports investigators said there may be more victims, possibly even younger.

WOOD-TV reports the younger boys told their mother about the assaults June 12, the day of the fire.

WWMT-TV reports the suspects told officers the fire started accidentally while they were smoking marijuana and dropped a cigarette on a mattress. Police Chief Jim Blocker said investigators think the fire was set intentionally in a cover-up attempt.