PENNSYLVANIA, USA — Experts say this case serves as a new benchmark for future laws and reiterates the importance of addressing the early warning signs the jury felt this mother missed.
"I think it's a precedent-setting decision not only for that state but for all 50 states throughout the country," said Peter Paul Olszewski Jr., former Luzerne County Judge and District Attorney.
Former Luzerne County Judge and District Attorney Peter Paul Olszewski Jr. says it's a huge win for the prosecution after Jennifer Crumbley was found guilty of four counts of involuntary Manslaughter, "At the end of the day, the jury sent a message that Miss Crumbley is the poster parent for parental irresponsibility."
Led out of court in shackles and handcuffs, the mother of Michigan school shooter Ethan Crumbley is the first parent in the country to be charged and convicted after their child carried out a school shooting.
A decision Olszewski says could become a regular practice in other states, "It would send a message to parents that if you were going to allow your son to have a gun, let alone to purchase a gun for a juvenile, you better be on top of your game as a responsible parent to limit access to limit the circumstances so that these shootings don't occur."
"Psychological symptoms can play out in so many different ways, so some kids may act depressed. They may have low energy low mood," said Dr. Fauve Luckey, Clinical Psychologist.
Dr. Fauve Luckey is a Clinical Psychologist from Lackawanna County.
She says parents can help prevent situations like this one by building support from all sides, "Have an outside mental health provider you're a psychologist, a licensed social worker, a licensed counselor plus a school-based team all working together and communicating as one with the parents with the kids so everyone has eyes."
Jennifer's husband, James Crumbley, also faces involuntary manslaughter charges for their son's school shooting.
His trial is set to begin next month.