A groundbreaking verdict in Michigan could set a significant precedent for holding the parents of school shooters responsible for the actions of their children. After about 10 hours of deliberation, a jury found James Crumbly guilty of involuntary manslaughter for the 2021 Oxford High School shootings. His son, who is serving a life sentence without parole, killed four people with a gun that his father had bought for him.
Thursday's conviction comes a month after Crumbly's wife, Jennifer, became the first parent ever to be held directly responsible for a mass shooting committed by their child. The couple now faces up to 15 years in prison with sentencing set for next month.
This verdict is significant as it marks the first time in the country that parents have been charged with homicide in relation to a school shooting. The involuntary manslaughter charge, resulting in potential substantial prison time, was due to the gross negligence exhibited by the parents in handling a firearm in their home, despite being aware of their child's mental instabilities.
Prosecutors across the country can now look at this case as a precedent, especially considering Michigan's legal duty for parents to ensure their child does not harm others. The upcoming joint sentencing of James and Jennifer Crumbly on April 9th in Oakland County, Michigan, will include victim impact statements, highlighting the emotional toll on the affected families.
These families have endured numerous hearings and defendants, yet they remain resilient. The joint sentencing on April 9th aims to minimize the families' burden of reliving their trauma multiple times. The court encourages victims to share their experiences, emphasizing the lasting impact of the tragedy on their lives.
