Tampa, Florida – A shocking video has surfaced showing the terrifying moment a grown man pinned an 11-year-old girl to the ground, accusing her of throwing eggs at his apartment. The incident, which occurred on April 19, has led to battery and false imprisonment charges against the man, identified as Marius Mutu, 43.
The footage has caused outrage across the community and social media, with many questioning how such an act could happen in broad daylight in a residential area.
What Happened?
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said they responded to reports of a man assaulting a child at an apartment complex in Tampa. Witnesses captured the moment on video, showing Mutu physically restraining the young girl as she screamed for help.
“Please, I wasn’t doing anything!” the child can be heard crying out in the video. “I swear on my life! Help me!”
A woman filming the incident shouted at Mutu to stop, while another man ran in yelling, “Get your hands off of her!”
What Led to the Assault?
According to police, Mutu believed the girl was responsible for egging his apartment, which had reportedly been targeted for a week. On the day of the incident, his apartment was egged again, and he assumed the girl walking nearby was the culprit.
He allegedly chased her down, forced her to the ground, and held her there until others stepped in.
Mutu told officers that he was just trying to take a photo of her to show to apartment management.
Authorities React Swiftly
Mutu was arrested on the spot, and the child was quickly checked by medics and returned to her family. She did not suffer serious physical injuries, but the emotional impact of the incident is being taken seriously.
“This type of behavior is not only unacceptable, it’s reprehensible,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The safety of our children is non-negotiable.”
Community Shocked
Local residents expressed horror over the incident. Hannah Noel, a mother living in the complex, told WFLA News:
“As a mom, it makes me sick to my stomach. For a grown man to do something to a vulnerable person is ridiculous.”
Suspension from Job
A Tampa city spokesperson confirmed that Mutu has also been suspended from his job at the Tampa Parking Division, pending an internal review.
The video continues to spread across social media, sparking debates about child safety, vigilante behavior, and how to properly handle neighborhood disputes.