A 14-year-old boy suspected of stabbing another teen during an immigration protest in downtown Los Angeles was charged in juvenile court with attempted murder, the District Attorney’s Office announced Thursday.
The stabbing occurred around 1:30 p.m. Feb. 7 at Grand Park across from Los Angeles City Hall when a fight erupted amid a boisterous student protest of federal immigration policies. The victim, a 17-year-old boy, was taken to a hospital for treatment of a stab wound.
The juvenile accused in the stabbing denied the attempted murder charge during his arraignment Tuesday in juvenile court. The defendant’s name was not released due to his age. He is due back in court March 7.
“Violence has no place in our public spaces,” District Attorney Nathan Hochman said in a statement. “We understand that people have the right to express their views, but this right must be exercised with respect for others’ safety and well-being. Our support is with the victim and their family as they navigate this difficult time and begin the recovery process.”