After the Pace Teen Homicide Arrests: What Families Should Know About Juvenile Charges

Santa Rosa County is processing difficult news: 14-year-old Danika Troy was found deceased in Pace, and two boys—ages 14 and 16—have been arrested and charged with first-degree premeditated murder in connection with her death.

This article provides legal context about Florida’s juvenile justice system when minors face serious charges. It is not commentary on guilt or innocence—both boys are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The Current Status (as of December 5, 2024)

According to law enforcement statements and court records:

• Both boys are charged with first-degree premeditated murder

• They are currently held in the Department of Juvenile Justice

• The State Attorney’s Office will decide whether to pursue adult charges

• Sheriff Bob Johnson has indicated the office intends to seek adult prosecution

How Florida Handles Serious Juvenile Cases

Florida law gives prosecutors discretion to transfer certain juvenile cases to adult court through a process called “direct file” (Florida Statute 985.557).

For first-degree murder:

• The case begins in juvenile court because of the defendants’ ages

• Prosecutors may file charges directly in adult criminal court

• For 16-17 year olds: prosecutors have broad discretion

• For 14-15 year olds: direct file is available for specific serious felonies

Given the severity of these charges, adult prosecution is possible for one or both defendants, though no formal decision has been announced.

Potential Outcomes If Charged as Adults

Death penalty: Not possible. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Roper v. Simmons (2005) that executing anyone for crimes committed under age 18 violates the Eighth Amendment.

Life without parole: Not mandatory. Miller v. Alabama (2012) prohibits automatic life-without-parole sentences for juveniles, even in homicide cases. Courts must consider:

• The juvenile’s age and maturity

• Family and home environment

• Circumstances of the offense

• Potential for rehabilitation

Florida’s juvenile sentencing law (F.S. 921.1402):

• Juveniles convicted of capital felonies may receive life sentences

• These sentences require individualized hearings

• Review hearings are mandated after 15, 20, or 25 years depending on the offense and the defendant’s role

• This provides what the law calls a “meaningful opportunity for release”

What this means: If convicted as adults, these boys could face decades in prison with a judicial review after many years.

If Cases Remain in Juvenile Court

Less likely given the charges, but possible:

• Maximum jurisdiction typically extends to age 21

• Focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment

• Secure residential programs rather than adult prisons

For Parents in Our Community

Talking to your children:

Keep explanations age-appropriate. Younger children need minimal detail; teens can handle more context about choices and consequences.

If your child faces questioning:

Florida law provides minors the same constitutional rights as adults:

• Right to remain silent

• Right to an attorney

• Right to have a parent present

Do not allow your child to speak with law enforcement without legal counsel, even if you believe they’re innocent or that “explaining” will help. Contact an attorney immediately.

Moving Forward

This case will unfold over months or years through:

• Prosecutorial charging decisions

• Pretrial proceedings

• Possible plea negotiations or trial

• Sentencing (if convicted)

The legal system must balance accountability for a serious crime with constitutional protections for juvenile defendants.

Resources:

• Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office: [contact info]

• Florida Department of Juvenile Justice: [contact info]

• Victim Services: [contact info]

This article reflects information available as of December 5, 2024, and provides general legal education only. It is not legal advice. If your family faces a juvenile justice matter, consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney about your specific situation.