PONTIAC, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – The parents of the Oxford High School shooter will be tried separately, according to a motion granted by an Oakland County judge on Monday.

James and Jennifer Crumbley, who have both presented a unified front since being charged in connection to the November 2021 shooting carried out by their then 15-year-old-son,  are each charged with four counts of involuntary manslaughter. Prosecutors claim the two ignored their son’s cries for mental health help and purchased the gun used in the shooting. Defense lawyers said this sets a precedent where parents could be charged for violent acts committed by their children.

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Attorneys for James and Jennifer Crumbley argued that the separate trial motions are to “avoid prejudice” and “promote fairness” in the case.

Ethan Crumbley pleaded guilty to the shooting that killed four students and injured seven other people. He will be sentenced in December.

The trial date for the pair was originally set for January.