Leanne Depa, a devoted adoptive mother, recently broke down in tears in a courtroom as she pleaded for leniency on behalf of her son. Her 17-year-old son, Brendan Depa, stood accused of a violent attack on a teacher’s aide, Joan Naydich, who had confiscated his Nintendo Switch.

In February 2023, Brendan, towering at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 270 pounds, assaulted Naydich at Matanzas High School in Palm Coast, Florida. He tackled her, unleashing a flurry of punches that left her seriously injured and unconscious.

Naydich suffered multiple broken ribs, a concussion, and other severe injuries.

Brendan faced a potential 30-year prison sentence for his actions, but his sentence was significantly reduced. The judge decided on a five-year prison term followed by 15 years of probation, a decision that has sparked outrage online.

Many feel that the sentence is too lenient given the severity of the attack.

During the sentencing hearing, Leanne Depa shared the challenges her son has faced throughout his life. She described Brendan’s struggles with autism and behavioral issues and pleaded for him to return home. She revealed that Brendan had felt abandoned after being sent to a residential treatment facility at the age of 14.

Brendan’s time at the treatment facility was marked by violent outbursts, including head-butting staff and throwing objects.

Following this period, he was moved to a group home before returning to live with his mother and attend public school in Palm Coast.

Leanne Depa had previously informed the school about Brendan’s various triggers, including his sensitivity to electronics.

Despite these warnings, an incident occurred when Naydich took away Brendan’s Nintendo Switch, leading to his violent response.

Naydich, who had worked at the school for nearly 19 years, has experienced significant personal and professional losses as a result of the attack. She has lost her job, financial security, and health insurance.

She has also filed a permanent injunction to keep Brendan away from her.

Brendan’s defense team argued that Naydich was not adequately trained to handle his needs and that his actions were a manifestation of his disability. However, Judge Terence Perkins rejected this argument, citing the brutality of the attack and the evidence captured on video.

Community Reaction

The community has reacted strongly to Brendan’s sentence. Many people believe that he received a lenient punishment and express concern that he might violate parole and return to prison.

Online users have voiced their frustration, with some suggesting that the sentence should have been longer or that the incident was close to attempted murder.

Moving Forward

Following the sentencing, Leanne Depa expressed her belief that her son is being unfairly punished due to his race, size, and disability. Judge Perkins has ordered a full mental health evaluation for Brendan, along with the development of a treatment plan for his disabilities.

TDPel Media

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