by Minneapolis, Minnesota — Prosecutors in Minnesota have filed misdemeanor charges against a woman accused of using a racist slur against a young Black child at a playground. The April incident, which quickly went viral on social media, has sparked outrage in Rochester and beyond — while also fueling a controversial fundraising campaign that has already brought in more than $800,000 for the accused.
Disorderly Conduct Charges Filed
According to the criminal complaint, the woman “wrongfully and unlawfully engaged in offensive, obscene, abusive, boisterous, or noisy conduct, or in offensive, obscene, or abusive language that would reasonably tend to arouse alarm, anger or resentment in others.”
She has been charged by summons with three counts of disorderly conduct, each carrying a potential penalty of 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. However, sentencing in similar Minnesota cases is often lighter. Her arraignment is scheduled for October 29, 2025.
The complaint lists a Rochester address, but it remains unclear if she still resides there, as she previously announced plans to relocate. Police noted that attempts to contact her have been unsuccessful. Court records also show she is representing herself.
Viral Video Sparked Outrage
The incident was captured on video by a bystander and has since been viewed millions of times. In the footage, the woman admitted to using the slur and appeared to double down on her actions, raising her middle finger at a man who confronted her.
Reports initially said the child was 5 years old, but court documents clarified he was 8. The boy’s father told police his son is autistic and requires constant supervision. During the playground incident, the child took an applesauce pouch from another bag. The woman allegedly confronted him, repeatedly used a racial epithet, and grabbed the item from him.
When another man at the park questioned her behavior, she admitted to the slur, reportedly stating she could use it “if he acts like one.” She then directed the same epithet toward the witness before dismissing accusations of hate speech.
Read Also: Florida Woman Arrested for Fake Dentistry, Using Nail Glue for Veneers
Crowdfunding Campaign Raises $800,000
According to NBC News, Despite the charges, the woman has found significant financial support online. She created a campaign on GiveSendGo, a Christian crowdfunding platform, to raise money for relocation. As of this week, donations have topped $800,000 with a goal of $1 million.
In a recent update, she thanked supporters, writing:
“Big things are happening regarding our future. Life-changing events are at play, and we have all of YOU to thank for that! Keep standing up for yourselves, and keep fighting for the First Amendment!”
Her supporters frame her fundraising as a defense of free speech, while critics argue it rewards racism and harmful behavior.
Community and NAACP Response
The incident has deeply shaken the Rochester community. Mayor Kim Norton issued a statement saying:
“This was a situation that deeply affected many people, especially our communities of color. We acknowledge the lasting impact not only on those directly involved but also across the community and the broader state and national conversations about race.”
Meanwhile, the NAACP Rochester chapter organized a separate fundraiser to support the child’s family. Their GoFundMe campaign raised $340,000 before being closed in May at the family’s request.
Walé Elegbede, president of the chapter, emphasized that the harm went beyond words:
“Their child was victimized and traumatized with racist and hateful rhetoric and actions. The family was impacted as well. This case is about justice, accountability, and making sure children can feel safe in public spaces.”
He added that the NAACP is working with the family to explore legal action against the woman.
What Comes Next
While the disorderly conduct charges are considered misdemeanors, the case continues to generate heated discussion across Minnesota and nationally. For supporters of the woman, it is about free speech protections, while for others it highlights ongoing issues of racism, accountability, and the treatment of vulnerable children.
The arraignment in October will be closely watched, as many in the community hope it will bring the “first step toward justice.”
What do you think about this case — does raising hundreds of thousands online undermine accountability, or is it a free speech issue? Share your thoughts in the comments at ibwhsmag.com.
