A Ridgefield parent is under investigation for allegedly verbally abusing and forcefully grabbing a six-year-old autistic student.  Ridgefield Police and the state Department of Children and Families launched an investigation into the incident that happened in late September during the Veterans Park Elementary School annual spirit run. 

According to statements from eyewitnesses, the alleged abuser yelled at the victim, grabbed her by the arm and pulled her onto her feet, pushing the student into a timeout.  A deep bruising patterns was photographed, and provided to Ridgefield Police and DCF. 

The mother's attorney is quoted in the Ridgefield Press as saying the school district claims they can’t get involved at all because it was a PTA event.  The parent is supposed to be on probationary status, but has reportedly volunteered for the classroom holiday party. The attorney for the school said someone from the PTA who was using the account of the accused.