Last week a Pennsylvania judge sentenced an 11-year-old girl for her role in the April beating of 10-year-old Rikki Triana, at the Pfeiffer Burleigh playground in Erie, Pennsylvania.
According to court records, Rikki was playing on a jungle gym on April 3 when she saw a group of girls picking on her 8-year-old sister. When Rikki attempted to intervene the 11-year-old, whose name is not being released due to her age, tossed a cup of water on her. The violence quickly escalated when another defendant in the case, aged 10, allegedly shoved Rikki to the ground and stomped on her head and legs so severely that it shattered Rikki's hip. As a result, Rikki was transported to a nearby hospital, where doctors had to insert three pins into her hip. She was later transported to Erie Shriners Hospital for Children, where she received intensive physical and occupational therapy.
During her sentencing hearing last Thursday, the 11-year-old girl formally apologized to Rikki for her part in the incident that has left Rikki permanently handicapped.
"I am sorry about what happened. I did not mean for you to break your hip," the 11-year-old
Judge John J. Trucilla dismissed a defense recommendation that he not adjudicate the 11-year-old girl delinquent, meaning that his ruling would remain on her record. Trucilla then found the girl guilty of harassment, a misdemeanor offense.
After making his ruling, Trucilla sentenced the girl to 50 hours of community service and a term of probation. He also ordered her to write a letter of apology to her to Rikki and her sister.
"I think you are very good girl. I think you made a bad mistake," Trucilla told the young defendant.
Following the hearing, Rikki's mother spoke briefly about her daughter's condition with Goerie.com. Lisa Triana said her daughter still has to undergo multiple surgeries and will probably never be able to walk normally again.
The 10-year-old defendant, who has allegedly admitted to her role in the assault, is expected to appear at a disposition hearing by the end of the month.
A fund has been set up to help pay for Rikki's medical bills. Donations can be made in Rikki's name at any Northwest Savings Bank.
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