Local State Lawmaker Continues School Safety Reform Efforts as James Crumbley Trial Begins

PONTIAC, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Mar. 5, 2024) – Jury selection begins this morning as the involuntary manslaughter trial of James Crumbley starts at Oakland County Circuit Court in Pontiac.

The 47-year-old Oxford man is facing four charges in the deaths of students at the hand of his son, Ethan, at Oxford High School on November 30, 2021. His wife, Jennifer, was previously convicted February 6 of the same counts and awaits an April 9th sentencing. Ethan Crumbley pled guilty to all charges and is serving life in prison without parole.

Since the incident more than 27 months ago, there has been efforts in Lansing to address some of the school security deficiencies that were exposed then. Third-term Republican Representative Luke Meerman of Coopersville has been among the legislative leaders in trying to get some bills through on this matter.

The trial before Judge Cheryl Matthews, who also presided over Jennifer Crumbley’s proceedings, should last about three weeks, according to court observers.