Canton Man Sentenced for Stabbing Parents

Joshua L. Shaffer pleaded guilty to attempted murder and other charges in the December attack.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A 49-year-old Canton Township man has been sentenced to 16 to 20 years in prison for stabbing his 71-year-old parents on December 3. Joshua L. Shaffer pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted murder, two counts of felonious assault, and two counts of felony domestic violence.

Why it matters

Violent crimes against family members are unfortunately all too common, and this case highlights the need for better mental health resources and support systems to prevent such tragedies. The sentencing also reflects the seriousness with which the courts view these types of offenses.

The details

According to the Stark County Sheriff's Office, Shaffer stabbed his elderly parents during an incident on December 3 in Canton Township. He pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced on February 10 by Stark County Common Pleas Judge Chryssa N. Hartnett.

  • The incident occurred on December 3, 2025.
  • Shaffer was sentenced on February 10, 2026.

The players

Joshua L. Shaffer

A 49-year-old Canton Township man who pleaded guilty to stabbing his elderly parents.

Chryssa N. Hartnett

The Stark County Common Pleas Judge who sentenced Shaffer to 16 to 20 years in prison.

Steven Reisch

The public defender who represented Shaffer.

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The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the importance of addressing mental health issues and providing support systems for families to prevent violence. The lengthy prison sentence reflects the seriousness with which the courts view crimes against vulnerable family members.