In a recent development, a former assistant principal at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News, Virginia, is now facing criminal charges after a special grand jury report alleged her "lack of response" and "poor decisions" led to a student intentionally shooting his first-grade teacher last year. Ebony Parker, who resigned following the incident, now faces eight counts of felony child abuse and neglect, each carrying a potential five-year prison sentence.

The 31-page grand jury report revealed disturbing details about the events leading up to and during the shooting. Despite receiving multiple warnings from staff members and students who believed the child had a gun and posed a threat, Parker allegedly failed to protect the 15 children in Abigail Zwerner's class. The report shockingly stated that Parker's lack of response and initiative given the seriousness of the information she received was "shocking."

According to the grand jury report, Parker was made aware of the potential danger posed by the child on four occasions leading up to the shooting, but she failed to take appropriate action. The report cited instances where staff members had informed Parker about the child possibly having a gun, including a situation where Parker refused to allow a guidance counselor to search the child despite concerns about him potentially being armed.

Tragically, on the day of the shooting, the child shot Zwerner from close range, but his attempt to fire again was thwarted when the firearm jammed. The grand jury report emphasized that the child showed no change in his emotional expression while attempting to shoot again.

Parker's arrest date was listed as Tuesday, and it remains unclear whether she has legal representation. The Newport News Commonwealth Attorney's Office declined to comment on the grand jury report, stating that a news conference would be held on Thursday.

The findings of the grand jury report align closely with the $40 million lawsuit filed by Abigail Zwerner against the school district, alleging that administrators, including Parker, failed to heed warnings. Zwerner's lawyers applauded the report, stating that it echoed the "systemic failure" at the school and revealed a potential cover-up of disciplinary records.

The grand jury, comprising 11 members, conducted a thorough investigation, including hearing testimony from 19 witnesses, reviewing school records, and analyzing video evidence to arrive at its determination. Their task was to determine whether anyone at the school should be held criminally liable for failing to prevent the shooting and to make recommendations for improvements.

Notably, the grand jury report also mentioned disciplinary issues involving the child in the days leading up to the shooting, including incidents of defiance and inappropriate behavior towards Zwerner. The report highlighted that the child's parents were supposed to be present daily as part of a care plan, but they were absent on the day of the incident.

While the criminal charges against the 6-year-old shooter were not pursued due to his age and limited understanding of the legal system, the possibility of holding adults accountable for their actions or lack thereof is being considered by the Commonwealth's Attorney's Office.

As the community awaits further updates regarding this distressing incident, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of students in Newport News schools.