Derek Rosa, a Cuban-American teenager accused of fatally stabbing his mother in Hialeah on October 12, 2023, appeared in criminal court via Zoom. According to reports from América TeVe, Judge Richard Hersch focused the session on examining the teenager's confinement conditions, including his outdoor time, academic assessments, and overall educational progress.
Judge Hersch also inquired about the psychological evaluations provided to the 14-year-old, which is a critical aspect of the case, as the defense attorneys assert his innocence, claiming he is an autistic child. The judge announced that the next hearing is scheduled for February 28, with an aim to commence the trial between April and June. Rosa is set to be tried as an adult and faces a first-degree murder charge.
In a previous appearance in September, also conducted virtually, Rosa's father and grandmother were present in the courtroom and were visibly emotional due to his altered physical appearance. Judge Hersch has repeatedly denied the defense's request to transfer Rosa from the adult jail at Metrowest to a juvenile detention center.
On the night of October 12, 2023, Rosa, then 13, allegedly stabbed his mother, Irina García, 46 times while she slept next to the crib of his 14-day-old baby sister. After the incident, he called 911 and provided details about the events inside their apartment at 211 West 79th Place, Hialeah. During the call, the operator asked why he had killed his mother, but he did not respond. Following the murder, Derek Rosa reportedly took pictures of his mother's body and sent them to a friend, recounting what he had done.
Insights into the Derek Rosa Case
What charges is Derek Rosa facing?
Derek Rosa is facing a first-degree murder charge for the alleged stabbing of his mother, Irina García.
When is the next court hearing for Derek Rosa?
The next court hearing is scheduled for February 28, with the trial expected to start between April and June.
Has the defense requested any changes to Rosa's detention conditions?
Yes, the defense has repeatedly requested that Rosa be transferred from an adult jail to a juvenile detention center, but these requests have been denied by Judge Hersch.