The teenager who carried out a shooting at a Michigan school that resulted in the deaths of four students pleaded guilty Monday to terrorism and first-degree murder.
Ethan Crumbley, 16, pleaded guilty to all 24 counts, nearly a year after the attack at Oxford High School in southeastern Michigan.
The young man may also be called to testify against his parents, who are being held on manslaughter charges, for their role in the tragedy.
Crumbley answered “yes” while looking at the ground, after being asked if he had “knowingly, intentionally and deliberately” chosen to shoot other students.
In court, several relatives of the victims wept as Deputy District Attorney Marc Keast described the crimes.
The prosecutor’s office revealed that no agreement had been reached before the session.
A first-degree murder conviction generally results in an automatic life sentence in Michigan, but teens are entitled to a hearing where their attorney can argue for a shorter term and a chance at parole.
“We are not aware of any other case anywhere in the country where a mass shooter has been convicted of terrorism on state charges,” Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald said.
The teen’s parents, James and Jennifer Crumbley, are being held on involuntary manslaughter charges for putting the gun within their son’s reach and ignoring his need for mental health treatment.
Ethan’s attorney, Paulette Michel Loftin, said it’s possible the young man could be called to testify against his parents.
Parents are rarely charged with school shootings, although the weapons used often come from the home of a parent or close relative.
Jennifer Crumbley referred to the gun used in the shooting on social media as a “Christmas present” for her son.
Aged 15 at the time, Ethan had no discipline problems at school, but his behavior raised suspicions after a teacher discovered a drawing with a gun pointed at the words, “Thoughts won’t stop. Help me.” .
The couple refused to take their son home on Nov. 30, but were told to get him to therapy within 48 hours, according to investigators.
Armed with a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol and 50 rounds of ammunition, Ethan Crumbley took it to school that day, walked into a bathroom, pulled out the gun and began shooting, causing six injuries in addition to four deaths.
The judge set the start of hearings for February 9 to determine if the teenager is sentenced to life in prison without parole or if he will receive a shorter sentence, given his age and the possibility of being released.
Ethan’s attorney said the young man is remorseful and takes responsibility for his actions. About the victims, he stressed: “I don’t think there are words that can make them feel better.”
Source: TSF
