Phoenix/ Crime & Emergencies
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Published on April 18, 2024
Phoenix Man Charged in Assault and Sexual Misconduct with a Minor During Home InvasionSource: Unsplash/ Umanoide

A Phoenix man is behind bars after a harrowing incident in an east Phoenix home where a four-year-old boy was sexually assaulted and his parents violently attacked during a late-night break-in. According to Phoenix Police, 25-year-old Abdullahi Aroni is facing a slew of charges including sexual conduct with a minor, burglary, and assault following the disturbing Sunday night events near 27th Street and Thomas Road.

The mother of the young victim reportedly awoke to a light being turned on in their house and discovered her son’s bedroom door ajar. Upon entering, she found herself face-to-face with an intruder — identified as Aroni — as reported by azfamily.com. Aroni allegedly grabbed her by the neck, prompting her screams, which brought the child’s father to the scene. A scuffle broke out through the house, eventually spilling into the backyard where Aroni escaped by jumping over a fence.

Officers who arrived on the scene found Aroni's sandals left behind and secured footage from a home surveillance camera showing the suspect exiting through a side door. As per the FOX 10 Phoenix, the child's father contended with minor injuries and mentioned that the intruder smelled strongly of alcohol.

Upon investigation, detectives located Aroni the next day at a nearby apartment complex where staff recognized him from the surveillance video. Aroni's girlfriend informed detectives that he had come home the previous night inebriated, lacking shoes, and with his clothing drenched. "He went over his limit and did not remember anything," Aroni said during police questioning according to azfamily.com. Despite confirming his identity in the video, Aroni claimed amnesia regarding the assault and fight that ensued that evening. His remorse was noted, as he expressed that he was "sorry for what happened."

Aroni, who has prior arrests including rape and robbery, now faces new grave accusations. A judge imposed a $150,000 cash-only bond with conditions such as house arrest should he post bail. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 25, as detailed by FOX 10 Phoenix.