Bleach Attack Suspect Goes Before Judge

Seventeen-year-old Juan Carlos Flores, who is accused of hitting a teenager in the face with bleach, wore a Gwinnett County jail jumpsuit as he made his first appearance in court Saturday.

A judge set bond, but Channel 2 Action News has learned that Flores will remain behind bars at least for now. Immigration officials have put a hold on Flores, meaning he would likely go into federal custody if he tries to leave.

Flores is one of three teens facing charges for the attack on Miguel Mesa, but Flores is the only one to be charged as an adult so far.

“Mr. Flores … you’re charged with aggravated battery. That’s a felony charge,” the judge said.

Police said Flores sat in the passenger seat and used a water gun to spray Mesa with a bleach mixture as he walked home from Lilburn Middle School. Police said the teens also threw water balloons.

“It just went boom! I just felt bleeding and everything,” said Mesa in an interview with Channel 2 Action News earlier in the week.

“This eye, I can see a little bit, but this side is a little fuzzy,” said Mesa, as he pointed to his injured eyes.

Channel 2 Action News tried to contact Immigration and Customs to learn more about the hold on Flores, but they haven’t responded.

Flores is due back in court on the aggravated battery charge June 17.