OXFORD, Mich. – The trial for the mother of the Oxford High School shooter has concluded after seven days of testimony, and now it is up to the jury to make a decision. Throughout the trial, prosecutors presented 21 witnesses, while the defense only called Jennifer Crumbley herself to testify. Both sides gave their closing arguments on Friday, and the jury has been instructed to refrain from discussing or reading about the case until deliberations begin on Monday, Feb. 5.
Jennifer and James Crumbley are facing four counts of involuntary manslaughter in connection with their son’s November 2021 mass shooting, which resulted in the deaths of four students. The shooter was previously sentenced to life in prison without parole.
During the trial, a Detroit business owner testified that he had called 911 after seeing Jennifer Crumbley and her husband in their car, leading to their arrest. Privileged texts between Jennifer Crumbley and her attorney were also admitted into evidence, despite previous objections. The defense argued that Crumbley’s affair with a witness should be brought up in court, and the judge allowed it. Furthermore, photos from Jennifer Crumbley’s Facebook page were shown to the jury, and she testified about text messages between her and her son regarding ghosts and hallucinations.
Other key moments in the trial included the testimony of a school counselor who discussed a meeting with the shooter’s parents on the day of the shooting. The counselor had expressed concerns about the shooter’s well-being.
The jury’s decision will determine the outcome of the trial for Jennifer and James Crumbley, who face serious charges related to their son’s deadly actions. Deliberations will begin on Monday, and the community awaits the resolution of this tragic incident.