OXFORD, Mich. – The trial for the mother of the Oxford High School shooter wrapped up after seven days of testimony, with the jury now tasked with making a decision on the case.
Prosecutors presented 21 witnesses throughout the trial, while the defense only called one witness, Jennifer Crumbley herself. Both sides presented their closing arguments on Friday before the jury was instructed not to discuss or read about the case over the weekend. Deliberations are set to begin on Monday, Feb. 5.
Jennifer and James Crumbley are both facing four counts of involuntary manslaughter in connection with their son’s mass shooting at Oxford High School, which resulted in the deaths of four students. The shooter, their son, was already sentenced in December to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Throughout the trial, various aspects of the events leading up to the shooting were brought to light, including privileged texts, personal family photos, and interactions between the shooter and his mother. These elements played a critical role in the case as the prosecution sought to prove that Jennifer Crumbley was grossly negligent and therefore partly responsible for the tragic outcome.
During her testimony, Crumbley addressed the texts from her son about ghosts and hallucinations, clarifying that they were simply jokes and not a reason for concern. However, the prosecution argued that these messages, along with other behaviors, should have prompted the parents to seek professional help for their son.
The trial also delved into Crumbley’s affair with a witness, which became a heated topic of conversation between attorneys and ultimately was deemed admissible in court, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
The evidence and testimony presented during the trial have shed light on the events leading up to the tragic shooting, emphasizing the complexities and nuances of the case. As deliberations begin, the jury must carefully consider the evidence and arguments put forth by both the prosecution and the defense before reaching a verdict.
Throughout the proceedings, the emotional weight of the case has been evident, reminding everyone involved of the profound impact of the events that transpired at Oxford High School. As the jury weighs the fate of Jennifer Crumbley, the community awaits the outcome of the trial, hoping for justice for the victims and their families.