Fox Lake Couple Charged with Abusing 11-Year-Old Boy for Years

Prosecutors say mother repeatedly beat child, stepfather told him he deserved it

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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A couple from Fox Lake, Illinois, has been charged with abusing an 11-year-old boy for years. Prosecutors said the boy's mother, Priscilla Marshall, 34, repeatedly punched him, hit him with extension cords, and threatened to stab him, while his stepfather, Cody Marion, 35, told the boy he deserved the abuse. The couple has been charged with aggravated battery to a child, domestic battery, and child endangerment.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of child abuse and neglect, even in suburban communities. The alleged actions of the parents, if true, represent an extreme and disturbing pattern of abuse that went undetected for years. It raises questions about how such severe mistreatment can continue without intervention from authorities or others in the community.

The details

According to prosecutors, the abuse came to light when the 11-year-old boy ran away from home and went to a nearby business, bruised and bloody, asking an employee to call 911. The boy said his mother had beaten him that morning, punching him in the face and pouring dish soap in his mouth and ear. Doctors noted numerous bruises, dried blood, and other injuries when the boy was treated at the hospital. The boy told police the abuse had been going on since 2023, when his mother first smacked him across the face. He said his mother would repeatedly beat him, while his stepfather would tell him he deserved it. The abuse included being forced to eat separately from the rest of the family, sleep on the floor instead of his bed, and not be allowed outside except for chores.

  • The abuse began in 2023, when the boy's mother first smacked him across the face.
  • The couple was arrested on Friday, March 8, 2026, after the 11-year-old boy ran away from home and sought help.

The players

Priscilla Marshall

The 34-year-old mother of the 11-year-old boy, who is accused of repeatedly punching him, hitting him with extension cords, and threatening to stab him.

Cody Marion

The 35-year-old stepfather of the 11-year-old boy, who is accused of telling the boy he deserved the abuse from his mother.

The 11-year-old boy

The victim of the alleged abuse by his mother and stepfather over the course of several years.

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What they’re saying

“Nobody loves you.”

— Priscilla Marshall, Mother (Court filings)

“You deserve it and should just take it.”

— Cody Marion, Stepfather (Court filings)

What’s next

Prosecutors are seeking to have Marshall and Marion jailed while they await trial on the charges of aggravated battery to a child, domestic battery, and child endangerment.

The takeaway

This disturbing case underscores the need for greater awareness and reporting of child abuse, even in seemingly safe suburban communities. It highlights the importance of providing support and resources to vulnerable children, and ensuring that abusive parents are held accountable for their actions.