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Autistic Boy's Noises: Family Wins $8M in Lawsuit
6 Nov
Summary
- Family awarded $8 million after neighbor sued over autistic son's noises.
- Neighbor alleged child's vocal outbursts constituted a 'public nuisance'.
- Jury found intentional infliction of emotional distress against neighbor.
A family in Northern California has received an $8 million award following a lawsuit initiated by their neighbor. The neighbor had filed a complaint alleging that the backyard noises of the family's autistic son constituted a public nuisance, causing her emotional distress and affecting her work.
The legal battle, which took place in Santa Clara County, saw the neighbor seeking a public nuisance abatement and a restraining order. She claimed the child's vocal outbursts were disruptive and occurred without adequate supervision. The family, however, countered these claims, explaining their son has Level 3 autism, is nonverbal, and expresses himself through vocal stimming.
After a jury trial, the family was awarded $8 million for intentional infliction of emotional distress. The mother expressed that her son's dignity was paramount and welcomed the verdict as a significant moment of justice. The family has since moved from their rental property due to the dispute.
