The family of 13-year-old Naya Wimps, who was wrongfully arrested and jailed for a bomb threat she did not commit, has announced plans to sue the Pembroke Pines Police Department, Renaissance Charter School, and social media platforms Instagram and Facebook.
Naya’s ordeal began when a fellow student who had been bullying her allegedly created a fake Instagram account to frame her for making threats against Renaissance Charter School.
Despite the fabricated evidence, Naya was arrested, leaving her family distraught and the seventh grader traumatized.
In a news interview, Naya’s mother recounted the anguish she felt during her daughter’s arrest: “At one point, I wanted her out so bad, I called my lawyer and asked if I could do the time instead.”
Naya’s attorney, Marwan Porter, criticized the failure of the Pembroke Pines Police Department to conduct a thorough investigation before taking such drastic action.
“When it comes to our children, law enforcement and school officials need to ensure they do their homework before putting our babies in handcuffs,” Porter stated.
Naya spent two weeks in jail, an experience her family says left her deeply scarred. During her detention, Naya was allegedly threatened by an older inmate over a piece of chocolate, adding to her anxiety and distress.
“I feel distant,” Naya shared. “I really don’t want to talk to anybody about the situation.”
Since the incident, Naya has transitioned to virtual schooling and found solace in her school track practice, describing it as her outlet and source of peace.
The family’s legal team intends to hold the school, police, and social media platforms accountable for their roles in Naya’s wrongful arrest.
Social media users have rallied in support of Naya, expressing outrage over the lack of proper investigation and calling for systemic changes to protect children from similar injustices.
