A Michigan County jury found Jennifer Crumbley, mother of Ethan Crumbley, guilty of causing the Oxford High School shooting in 2021, leaving four students dead and seven others injured.
After two weeks of trial and testimony from 22 witnesses, a 12-person jury on Tuesday returned a guilty verdict for Jennifer Crumbley, who now faces up to 15 years in prison. Her sentencing date is scheduled for April 9.
During the trial, prosecutors argued that Jennifer Crumbley could have prevented the shooting if she had paid attention to her son Ethan's warning signs. Prosecutors noted that the purchase of a gun as a gift for her son just four days before the horrific event could have contributed to the tragedy and revealed that on the morning of the shooting, Jennifer arrived at school after school counselors discovered disturbing notes written by Ethan in class.
Despite all of this, the defense team argued that Jennifer was unaware of her son's plans and, therefore, should not be held responsible for Ethan's crimes. During the trial, Jennifer testified, expressing a mother's disbelief at the idea that her son could cause harm to other people.
"You never would think you'd have to protect your child from harming someone else. That's what blew my mind. That was the hardest thing I had to stomach is that my child harmed and killed other people," Jennifer testified. However, during the judicial process, she admitted that she could have prevented the tragedy.
Ethan Crumbley, who was 15 at the time of the shooting, pleaded guilty to murder and terrorism last year and is serving life in prison without the possibility of parole.
On the other hand, Jennifer's husband, James Crumbley, also faces four counts of involuntary manslaughter. His case is being tried separately.
Prosecutor highlights the importance of parents' responsibility
After the jury's decision, Eric Rinehart, Lake County prosecutor in Illinois, underscored that this trial is of utmost importance because it sends a clear message to parents that they could be responsible for the actions of their children, which in turn could help them take preventive measures, especially if they express homicidal and suicidal thoughts.
