Buffalo Mother and Stepfather Indicted on Child Abuse Charges

Couple accused of physically abusing 7-year-old child, including forcing them into cold baths as punishment

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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A Buffalo mother and her stepfather have been indicted on multiple felony charges, including assault and reckless endangerment, in connection with the alleged abuse of a 7-year-old child. Prosecutors allege the defendants forced the child into cold baths, withheld food, and subjected the child to physical violence and other cruelty over a two-month period.

Why it matters

The disturbing allegations of physical abuse and deprivation of basic needs for a vulnerable child have shocked the local community and raised concerns about the safety of children in the care of their own family members. This case highlights the importance of vigilance and reporting suspected child abuse to the authorities.

The details

According to the indictment, on December 11, 2025, Buffalo emergency responders were called to a home on Parkdale Avenue for a report of an unresponsive child. The 7-year-old victim was transported to the hospital and treated for hypothermia and other injuries after allegedly being forced into a cold bath by the defendants as punishment. The indictment further alleges that between October 16, 2025 and December 11, 2025, the mother and stepfather repeatedly abused the child through physical violence, withholding food, forced exercise, and cold showers.

  • On December 11, 2025, Buffalo Fire, Buffalo Police, and AMR paramedics responded to a home on Parkdale Avenue for a report of a child found unresponsive.
  • The 7-year-old child was hospitalized for eight days and treated for hypothermia and other injuries.
  • The alleged abuse occurred between October 16, 2025 and December 11, 2025.

The players

Jacklyn J. Balabis

A 26-year-old Buffalo mother who has been indicted on multiple felony charges related to the abuse of a 7-year-old child.

Parris D. Woods

A 24-year-old Buffalo stepfather who has been indicted on multiple felony charges related to the abuse of a 7-year-old child.

Mike Keane

The Erie County District Attorney who is prosecuting the case and stated that "no child should ever be subjected to this level of cruelty".

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What they’re saying

“These disturbing allegations involve physical abuse and the deliberate deprivation of basic needs. No child should ever be subjected to this level of cruelty - especially by the hands of those entrusted with their care. This case demands accountability and we will prosecute the accused to the fullest extent of the law.”

— Mike Keane, Erie County District Attorney (wgrz.com)

What’s next

The mother and stepfather are set to return to court on February 5 and face up to 25 years in prison if convicted.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for vigilance in identifying and reporting suspected child abuse, as well as the importance of holding perpetrators fully accountable for such egregious crimes against vulnerable children.