“I’m Scared”: Child’s Message Leads to Arrest in Davenport Abuse Case

Andre Brown Jr., 33 / PCSO

By Ciara Perez, Senior Multimedia Correspondent

iSkyNews.com (ISN) – Published May 4, 2026

Davenport, FL — A Davenport man is behind bars following a disturbing child abuse investigation that authorities say involved targeting a young child because of perceived sexual orientation, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies arrested Andre Brown Jr., 33, on Sunday, May 3, 2026, charging him with aggravated child abuse (felony)and resisting arrest (misdemeanor). Officials say the charge was enhanced to a life felony due to the incident being classified as a hate crime.

🚔 Investigation Began With Frightening Message

According to investigators, the case began after a 9-year-old girl contacted her mother, reporting that Brown was abusing her and two other children inside the home. In a message that sparked immediate concern, the child wrote:

“I’m scared, he’s whooping him so hard, I’m scared.”

Authorities say that message led to an urgent response and the launch of a full investigation.

During interviews, the children told investigators that Brown became angry with a 5-year-old boy and began slamming him onto the ground multiple times. Deputies say the abuse escalated, with Brown allegedly striking all three children with a belt.

According to the affidavit, the suspect’s anger was specifically directed at the youngest child due to the belief that the child was gay.

When deputies made contact with the children, they documented visible injuries, including:

Bruising on multiple children’s arms and legs
Significant bruising across the youngest victim’s arms, legs, back, and stomach
A fractured right wrist
A contusion to the forehead

Investigators say the 5-year-old victim expressed fear and was hesitant to speak further.

Authorities say Brown admitted to deputies that he targeted the child because of his sexual orientation. Due to the severity of the injuries and the motivation behind the attack, the charge was enhanced under Florida’s hate crime statute, elevating it to a more serious felony.

Deputies say when they attempted to take Brown into custody, he resisted arrest, pulling away and becoming increasingly aggressive. Even after being placed in handcuffs, he continued yelling and resisting.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd condemned the incident:

“This was a brutal and hateful attack on a defenseless child. There is absolutely no excuse for it. We will make sure justice is served and these children get the safety and support they deserve.”

According to authorities, Brown has an extensive criminal history, including multiple violent offenses such as aggravated battery, burglary, assault with a deadly weapon, kidnapping, and prior incidents involving resisting law enforcement.

Officials say the children are now safe as the case moves through the legal system. The investigation remains ongoing.