Pontiac, Michigan – Prosecutors in Michigan are urging a minimum of 10 years in prison for the first parents in the U.S. to face criminal responsibility for a school shooting. The parents, Jennifer and James Crumbley, are being held accountable for the deaths of four students at Oxford High School in 2021.
According to prosecutors, Jennifer Crumbley displayed a disturbing lack of remorse, while James Crumbley failed to exercise basic care that could have prevented the tragic incident. Although they were not aware of their son’s plan, they were found guilty of involuntary manslaughter for not securing a gun at home and neglecting his mental health.
The judge is set to determine the minimum sentence on April 9. The Crumbleys could be eligible for parole after serving the set time and could receive credit for the time spent in jail since their arrest – about 2 1/2 years.
Prosecutors revealed that Jennifer Crumbley is seeking to avoid prison and instead wear an electronic tether while living with her attorney. Likewise, James Crumbley is also hopeful for release. However, the prosecutors argue that such leniency does not reflect the gravity of the tragedy caused by the couple’s negligence.
The day of the shooting, the Crumbleys were notified of their son’s disturbing drawings at school but chose not to take him home. Instead, they left with contacts for mental health services. Hours later, Ethan, their son, opened fire at the school using a handgun purchased by his father just days prior.
Ethan, who is now 17, is serving a life sentence without parole after pleading guilty to murder and terrorism charges. During James Crumbley’s trial, he was prohibited from using a phone and tablet in jail due to threats made to the county prosecutor.
As the case unfolds, the community awaits the final sentencing of the Crumbleys, hoping for justice to be served for the victims and their families. The tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of gun safety and mental health awareness in preventing such devastating incidents.