Proper Parenting or Child Abuse? – (VIDEO)

As a father of a 5 year old, I could never imagine doing this to my son in a Wal Mart.  However, some folks that saw these photos posted on social media have come to the man's defense.  What do you think?

If you saw this at the Wal Mart North or South would you take action?

PS - the little girl is allegedly autistic