FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Uvalde Foundation For Kids
(Charity ID 88-3268749)
August 15, 2025
(National/Texas/Missouri)
Uvalde Foundation for Kids Applauds Grand Jury Indictment in Conrad Ashcraft Case in Missouri, Urges Continued Action for "Conrad's Law"
TEMPLE, TX – August 15, 2025 – The Uvalde Foundation for Kids, a national nonprofit dedicated to student advocacy and ending school and youth violence, today issued a statement in response to the St. Francois County, Missouri grand jury’s decision to charge Tiffany R. Hedrick with second-degree murder, abuse or neglect of Conrad Ashcraft resulting in death, and armed criminal action.
This significant development follows extensive advocacy by the Foundation, which has been deeply involved in seeking justice for three-year-old Conrad Ashcraft, who tragically died in May 2025 while in the care of a Missouri daycare.
Conrad Ashcraft, a nonverbal child with autism, was found deceased at a Park Hills, Missouri daycare facility. Initial reports indicated that he was placed under an 18.2-pound weighted blanket and left unattended, with a staff member reportedly applying pressure to his body to force him to sleep.
The Uvalde Foundation for Kids launched an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Conrad’s death, quickly identifying critical gaps in childcare safety and accountability in Missouri.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Foundation spearheaded efforts to prevent similar incidents, drafting and presenting initial legislation known as "Conrad's Law." This proposed law aims to enhance safety measures in Missouri daycare facilities, including mandates for camera systems and increased staff training, particularly for the care of neurodivergent and special needs children.
The Foundation also launched a petition that has garnered thousands of signatures, calling for charges to be brought against the responsible worker and for "Conrad's Law" to be passed to further protect vulnerable daycare youth and neurodivergent children in Missouri.
Just eleven days prior to today's announcement, the Uvalde Foundation for Kids publicly called upon the Missouri Attorney General to intervene in the case, citing the extended delay in charges being brought. The Foundation emphasized the urgent need for decisive legal action to ensure accountability and to send a clear message about the protection of children in childcare settings across Missouri.
"Our foundation cautiously celebrates what we see as a victory for Conrad in this case. Just eleven days after our call to the Attorney General to intervene in the case, we were encouraged to learn of this most assured step forward to ensuring justice is served for precious Conrad," said Daniel Chapin, Founder of the Uvalde Foundation for Kids.
"We remain cautious, as there is work yet to be done and true celebration would only be warranted had this tragedy never occurred in the first place. We remain cautious until the work toward furthering the legacy of Conrad Ashcraft to safeguard future Missouri children entering daycare facilities throughout the state, via Conrad's Law is passed. We remain cautious until the day when the individual(s) responsible for taking this precious life are convicted among a jury of their peers."
The Uvalde Foundation for Kids remains committed to advocating for the passage of "Conrad's Law" and will continue to monitor the legal proceedings to ensure justice for Conrad Ashcraft. The Foundation believes that this indictment is a critical step, but true systemic change requires comprehensive legislative reform to safeguard all children in daycare environments across Missouri.
Group Proposed Legislation After Daycare Death
The Uvalde Foundation For Kids is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to student advocacy and ending school and youth violence. Through independent investigations, legislative advocacy, and community engagement, the Foundation works to protect students, foster safe learning environments, and promote accountability for those who endanger children.
The Uvalde Foundation for Kids
www.theuvaldefoundation.com
254 499 8027