Foster parent charged for spanking 3-year-old with fly swatter

Elderly Baton Rouge woman accused of cruelty to juveniles after foster child found with bruises

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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A 76-year-old Baton Rouge woman was charged with cruelty to juveniles after her 3-year-old foster child was found with bruises on different parts of his body. The woman, Beanisle Jones, allegedly told police she spanked the child with a fly swatter, claiming she did not believe it was considered child abuse since she did not break the skin.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in the foster care system, where vulnerable children can sometimes face abuse or neglect from those entrusted to care for them. It also raises questions about the use of corporal punishment and where the line is drawn between discipline and abuse.

The details

Police were called to a daycare on February 9, 2024, after staff members saw bruises on the 3-year-old boy's body and a limp as he walked. Jones, the foster parent, had kept the child home on February 6 and 7, then returned him to daycare on February 8, when the bruises were first noticed. Jones initially told the daycare her daughter had spanked the child for eating all the groceries, but later admitted to police that she had spanked him with a fly swatter, claiming she did not think it was considered child abuse.

  • On February 9, 2024, police were called to a daycare and shown pictures of the child's injuries.
  • On February 6 and 7, 2024, the child was kept home from daycare.
  • On February 8, 2024, the child returned to daycare, and staff members noticed the bruising.

The players

Beanisle Jones

A 76-year-old foster parent from Baton Rouge, Louisiana who was charged with cruelty to juveniles for allegedly spanking her 3-year-old foster child with a fly swatter.

3-year-old boy

The foster child who was found with bruises on his body and a limp, prompting the investigation into his foster parent.

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What they’re saying

“She told police that she spanked the child with a fly swatter.”

— Beanisle Jones, Foster parent (louisianafirstnews.com)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Jones' bail status at a hearing next week.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger oversight and training in the foster care system to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children, and to clearly define acceptable disciplinary methods that do not cross the line into abuse.