Minnesota woman faces charges for using racial slurs against autistic child

In April 2025, a significant incident took place at Roy Sutherland Playground in Rochester, Minnesota, where Shiloh Hendrix confronted an 8-year-old boy with autism. During the confrontation, Hendrix allegedly hurled multiple racial slurs at the child after he took an applesauce pouch from her diaper bag. This incident was caught on video, which subsequently went viral, highlighting the abusive language directed at the child. The child's father reported the boy's profound autism and his struggles with understanding social boundaries. In light of the public outrage that followed, a fundraiser was created for the boy's family, raising about $340,000, while Hendrix raised around $800,000 for her defense, claiming she needed the funds to protect her family. The local NAACP and various community organizations condemned her actions, calling for legal consequences and expressing concern for the boy's safety within the community. As details emerged, the Rochester City Attorney's Office announced that Hendrix would face three misdemeanor charges of disorderly conduct, alleging that she engaged in offensive and abusive language that could reasonably agitate others. These developments have stirred significant discussion within the community about racism, abuse, and the protection of vulnerable individuals, particularly those with disabilities. The case's sensitive nature and the high public interest delayed formal charges until all evidence was thoroughly reviewed by legal officials. This incident has resulted in heightened awareness and dialogue surrounding racial issues and the treatment of disabled individuals in society.