A Montreal woman convicted of throwing boiling water on a 10-year-old boy has been denied a temporary absence from prison, according to a decision released by the Parole Board of Canada. The woman, whose identity is protected under a publication ban, was sentenced to prison for the 2022 attack that left the child with severe burns.
Denial of Temporary Absence
The Parole Board of Canada ruled on June 26, 2026, that the woman would not be granted a temporary absence from prison, citing concerns about her risk to reoffend and lack of progress in rehabilitation. The board stated that the woman had not completed necessary programming to address her violent behavior and that her release would pose an undue risk to public safety.
According to the board's decision, the woman has shown limited insight into her crime and has not fully engaged in psychological treatment. The attack occurred in 2022 when the woman, then 29, threw boiling water on the boy during a dispute in a Montreal apartment building. The victim suffered second- and third-degree burns to his face, chest, and arms.
Background of the Case
The woman was convicted of aggravated assault in 2023 and sentenced to seven years in prison. The incident drew widespread condemnation and highlighted issues of child safety and domestic violence. The boy has since undergone multiple surgeries and continues to receive medical care for his injuries.
In its decision, the parole board noted that the woman had a history of violent behavior and had not taken responsibility for the attack. She had applied for a temporary absence to attend a community-based treatment program, but the board determined that her risk could not be managed in the community at this time.
Impact on Victim and Community
The victim's family expressed relief at the board's decision, stating that they feared for their safety if the woman were released. The boy's mother said in a statement, "We are grateful that the board recognized the danger she poses. Our son continues to suffer from the trauma, and we need to feel safe."
The case has also prompted calls for stricter sentencing for violent crimes against children. Advocacy groups have urged the justice system to prioritize victim safety over offender rehabilitation in cases involving severe harm to minors.
The woman's next parole eligibility date is set for 2028. She remains incarcerated at a federal prison in Quebec.
