In a highly unusual trial, a Michigan jury has begun deliberations in the case against Jennifer Crumbley, the mother of a school shooter, who could face involuntary manslaughter charges for the deaths of four students. The jury received instructions from Oakland County Judge Cheryl Matthews and began deliberations on Monday, with the possibility of Jennifer Crumbley serving prison time if convicted.

Prosecutors argue that Jennifer Crumbley was grossly negligent in failing to inform Oxford High School officials about the presence of firearms in her home, including a 9 mm handgun that her son, Ethan Crumbley, had used at a shooting range just days before the tragic incident. The school had expressed concern over a disturbing drawing found on Ethan's math assignment depicting a gun, bullet, and a wounded man with desperate phrases. However, Jennifer and her husband, James Crumbley, had allowed Ethan to remain in school without taking any corrective action.

Tragically, Ethan Crumbley later retrieved the gun from his backpack and opened fire at the school, resulting in the deaths of four students. Prosecutors highlighted that Jennifer Crumbley was aware of the gun in the drawing, which was identical to the firearm at their home. They argued that she knew it was not stored properly, that Ethan was proficient with the gun, and that he had access to ammunition. They emphasized that even the smallest actions by Jennifer Crumbley could have potentially saved the lives of Hana St. Juliana, Tate Myre, Justin Shilling, and Madisyn Baldwin.

Four hours into the deliberations, the jury sent a note to the judge seeking clarification on whether they could infer anything from the prosecution's decision not to present Ethan Crumbley or others to explain how he obtained the gun from home. The judge instructed the jurors that they could only consider the evidence admitted in the case.

Ethan Crumbley, now 17, previously pleaded guilty to murder and terrorism charges and is currently serving a life sentence. His mother had desired to call him as a defense witness, but his lawyers indicated that he would invoke his right to remain silent. The defense argued that the tragedy was not foreseeable and placed responsibility for the gun on James Crumbley rather than Jennifer. Defense attorney Shannon Smith cautioned that a conviction would have a chilling effect on parents who are unaware of their children's unlawful actions.

The jury, consisting of six men and six women, includes individuals who have experience with firearms in their households or as gun owners themselves. They affirmed that this would not impede their ability to be impartial. Jennifer Crumbley, 45, and James Crumbley, 47, are the first parents in the United States to be charged in relation to a mass school shooting perpetrated by their child. James Crumbley is set to face trial in March.

The Crumbleys also stand accused of neglecting Ethan's mental health needs, as evidenced by a journal found in his backpack where he expressed frustration over his pleas for help going unanswered. If convicted of involuntary manslaughter, Jennifer Crumbley could face a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. The Crumbleys have been in jail for over two years, unable to post a $500,000 bond while awaiting trial.

As the jury deliberates, the trial serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of school shootings and raises critical questions regarding parental responsibility and addressing mental health concerns among troubled youths.