In The Politics of Autism, I write about the everyday struggles facing autistic people and their families, including violence against autistic children.
The attorney representing the man seen slapping an autistic boy at a Pacoima bus stop expressed his client's remorse after the arraignment for the misdemeanor case.
"He's extremely saddened and remorseful about the incident," attorney James Blatt said. "Had he had knowledge that this young boy was autistic or had some disability, he would have never approached him."
Blatt represents Scott Sakajian, who was caught on camera slapping 10-year-old Alfred Morales on July 9 after the child grabbed the hood ornament on his Mercedes-Benz. Morales' uncle Arturo Sanchez said the Sakajian made a U-turn and smacked the kid despite the family apologizing and saying Morales had autism.
"My client obviously should not have touched him under any circumstance," Blatt said. "My client has an acceptance of responsibility."
Sakajian did not appear at his arraignment because of threats, according to his attorney.
Fortunately, the community has rallied behind the child's family, which was homeless.
