Arizona Tattoo Artist Faces Backlash for Tattooing 9-Year-Old Girl

The artist defended his decision, citing parental consent and cultural factors, but critics argue the move was unethical despite being legal under Arizona law.

The tattoo artist, Sosa, co-owner of Black Onyx Empire Tattoo in Yuma, Arizona, tattooed an American flag on a 9-year-old girl after she initially requested a Donald Trump portrait on her neck.
Arizona law permits minors to get tattoos with parental consent and presence, but Sosa acknowledged the ethical concerns and said he typically sets a minimum age of 15.
The girl's family, refugees from Turkey, viewed the tattoo as a symbol of gratitude for their life in the United States, with Trump seen as a hero in their eyes.
Sosa attempted to dissuade the family by quoting a high price and proposing a less extreme tattoo, but the family insisted, and the girl later returned at age 10 for a touch-up.
The incident has drawn widespread criticism online and within the tattoo industry, with some professionals arguing it damages the field's reputation and calling for stricter regulations on tattooing minors.