Willis v. State

888 N.E.2d 177 (2008)

Facts

Willis (D) is a single mother with a son who has a serious history of untruthfulness and taking property belonging to others. The 11-year-old boy took clothes from D and gave them away at school and then lied about the conduct. Willis tried to reason and get him to admit his wrong, but he continued to lie about the issues. D then spanked him 5-7 times with either a belt or an extension cord. The boy then went to school that next Monday and asked to see the school nurse. The nurse looked at the bruises and contacted child protective services who contacted the police. D was arrested and found guilty. D appealed contending she has the right as a parent to use force in raising her child.