Parents of Suspect in Michigan School Shooting Are Charged

“While the shooter was the one who entered the high school and pulled the trigger, there are other individuals who contributed to the events on Nov. 30, and it’s my intention to hold them accountable as well. It’s imperative we prevent this from happening again. No other parent or community should have to live through this nightmare. I have shared previously, and I will reiterate today that gun ownership is a right. And with that right comes great responsibility. Based on the information and evidence I have received today, I am announcing charges against the shooter’s parents, Jennifer and James Crumbley. The charges are as follows: James Crumbley is charged with four counts of involuntary manslaughter. Jennifer Crumbley is also charged with four counts of involuntary manslaughter. I want to be really clear that these charges are intended to hold the individuals who contributed to this tragedy accountable, and also send a message that gun owners have a responsibility — when they fail to uphold that responsibility, there are serious and criminal consequences.” Reporter: “It’s extremely rare for parents to be charged in school shootings. Are you trying to set a new standard or is the evidence simply overwhelming in this case?” “I have tremendous compassion and empathy for parents who have children who are struggling and at risk for whatever reason, and I am by no means saying that an active shooter situation should always result in a criminal prosecution against parents. But the facts of this case are so egregious.”