Authorities in suburban Chicago say an 11-year-old boy’s desperate escape to a nearby business helped uncover what investigators describe as years of alleged abuse inside a Fox Lake home.

According to the Fox Lake Police Department, Priscilla Marshall, 34, and her boyfriend Cody Marion, 35, have been charged with aggravated battery to a child, along with multiple misdemeanor counts including endangering the life or health of a child, after police began investigating the situation Friday night.

The case came to light when the boy ran away from the house wearing only underwear and sought help at a nearby business. An employee called police after noticing the child had blood on his face and visible welts, bruises, and scratches across his body. Officers quickly took him into protective custody and transported him to a hospital for medical evaluation.

Doctors later found numerous injuries, including bruising across his body, dried blood in his nose and mouth, and what appeared to be soapy residue on his face and chest.

Investigators say the boy told them he had endured abuse for several years, allegedly beginning in 2023. According to court filings cited in reports, the abuse included being punched, struck with extension cords and other household items, and having dish soap poured into his mouth and ears. He also told investigators he was removed from school before fifth grade, while his siblings continued attending classes.

The child described a frightening incident the day he fled the home. He said Marshall became angry, pushing and punching him while shouting that no one loved him. The boy said he began coughing up blood before running out of the house. As he escaped, he claimed his mother grabbed a knife and held it to her throat.

Investigators also allege Marshall forced the boy to write cruel messages about himself in a notebook, including statements that he was unloved. At times, he said, he was made to eat separately in a hallway, while the rest of the family shared restaurant meals.

Police say four other children were connected to the household, including two toddlers who were inside the home when officers arrived. Those children appeared unharmed but were taken into protective custody along with two siblings who were at school at the time. All were evaluated at the Lake County Child Advocacy Center before being placed temporarily with a relative.

Authorities arrested Marshall after speaking with the boy and visiting the residence. After conducting additional interviews and gathering evidence, investigators returned to the home and arrested Marion as well.

During a court hearing, Marion’s attorneys reportedly argued that Marshall was responsible for the abuse, but the judge noted that Marion knew about the situation and failed to intervene.

Both suspects are being held at the Lake County Jail as the legal process moves forward, with detention hearings scheduled this week.

Officials say the investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue working to ensure the safety and well-being of the children involved.