An elderly man in South Carolina is facing charges after he allegedly launched a racially motivated attack against a Black hospice caregiver, an incident that was caught on camera and posted to social media, causing widespread outrage.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
John Daniel Rosso, 79, was charged with misdemeanor assault and battery in the third degree after the attack on 25-year-old Jasmine Thomas, a certified nursing assistant. According to reports, the assault occurred on April 28, when Thomas was on her way to work in Aiken, South Carolina.
Thomas told police that she was driving down the street when she saw Rosso parked on the side of the road, speaking to a woman walking her dog. After stopping her car outside her workplace, Rosso allegedly followed her, parked behind her, and approached her vehicle. When Thomas rolled down her window, Rosso struck her in the face.
Video Evidence and Racially Charged Remarks
The attack was captured in a video that Thomas posted to TikTok, where Rosso can be heard telling her to “Shut up!” before she escapes through the passenger side of her car. Rosso allegedly followed her into the yard, where he struck her again, yelling, “You don’t belong here” and using a racial slur.
As the confrontation escalated, Josh Herring, the homeowner and Thomas’ employer, intervened after hearing the commotion. Herring confirmed to police that he believed the attack was provoked by racism, as he had known Thomas for a year and she had been providing caregiving services to his father.
The Emotional Toll on Thomas
In an emotional interview, Thomas shared the deep psychological impact the attack had on her. She revealed that she is still struggling with the trauma, saying, “Every time I close my eyes, I think about him.
I see him in my head every time I close my eyes.” She described the fear she now feels, including being afraid of loud noises and the dark. “It’s kind of scary for real,” she said.
Despite her trauma, Thomas expressed gratitude for the support of Josh and Meredith Herring, who intervened during the attack and have continued to support her. She said, “Thank God for Josh and Meredith… Had they not been here, no telling how far it would’ve escalated.”
The Arrest and Charges
Rosso was arrested and booked at the Aiken Detention Center. His bond was set at $1,087.50. The charges he faces are in relation to his violent actions and racially charged comments made during the attack.
Although the assault charge is classified as a misdemeanor, the racial element of the incident has fueled public outcry, prompting questions about the deeper societal issues at play.
Thomas’ Role and Impact on the Family
Thomas has worked with the Herring family for about a year, providing caregiving services for Josh Herring’s father.
The Herrings have spoken highly of her, with Josh stating, “We fell in love with her because she takes good care of my dad.” Meredith also praised Thomas for her dedication, calling her a “good teacher” who helped them care for Josh’s father.