Donini said the Scioto County Sheriff's Office received a report on Dec. 15 from a mother alleging that her seven-year-old son had been raped while playing in the neighborhood with other children in the West Portsmouth area.
Deputies responded to Southern Ohio Medical Center where the child was being treated which led to a report being filed that was later forwarded to detectives for an investigation.
Detectives interviewed the suspects, including one out-of-state interview and two local interviews.
After an ongoing investigation the three juveniles, two 12-year-olds and a 14-year-old, have been charged through Scioto County Juvenile Court and will appear in juvenile court at a later date.
"This case took a little bit because one of the suspects was out of state," Scioto County Sheriff's Detective Jodi Conkel said.
"People don't really know these things are going on, but I get them nearly every week," Conkel said. "I don't think people in Scioto County realize exactly what goes on."
Conkel said the reason it is important for the public to know about these instances is so parents can educate their children as to the dangers that exist.
"If they see it, they will be more apt to talk to their children and say, 'they may try to touch you. These are your private parts'," Conkel said. "Most rape victims don't come forward right away. A lot of them are ashamed -- they feel dirty. They feel like it's their fault, and they just don't come forward. It's sad."
Donini said the successful apprehension of the suspects is a direct result of the joint effort between the Scioto County Sheriff's Office detectives and deputies.
Donini said anyone with information regarding the case can contact Scioto County Sheriff's Detective Jodi Conkel at (740) 351-1091. All calls will remain anonymous.
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