Deja Taylor, the mother of the 6-year-old shooter of his first-grade teacher in January, has been sentenced to two years in prison for child neglect. The incident occurred at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News, and Taylor had previously pleaded guilty to state felony child neglect in August, with a dropped misdemeanor charge related to reckless firearm storage.
This marks Taylor’s second prison sentence in connection with the shooting. In November, she received a 21-month sentence after admitting to federal charges of using marijuana while possessing a firearm and providing false information about her drug use during the firearm purchase.
According to authorities, the child intentionally shot and injured his teacher, Abby Zwerner, on January 6. Zwerner sustained a gunshot wound through her hand and into her chest. The firearm used in the incident was traced back to Taylor, purchased in July 2022. Prosecutors highlighted the absence of safety measures such as a lock box or trigger lock for the weapon.
Facing a potential five-year sentence for child neglect, Taylor was ultimately sentenced to five years with three years suspended. Upon release, she will undergo two years of probation, including substance abuse treatment, parenting classes, and mental health support.
This state sentence is to be served consecutively to the federal 21-month sentence. Taylor’s attorney, James Ellenson, criticized the verdict as “excessive” and “harsh,” claiming the judge did not consider mitigating factors, including domestic abuse, substance abuse, and mental health issues.
Abby Zwerner’s lawyer, Diane Toscano, expressed concerns about accountability failures leading to the shooting, emphasizing the school district’s alleged inaction in protecting teachers and students. Zwerner herself testified during the federal sentencing about the enduring physical and psychological impact of the incident.
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In response, Zwerner filed a $40 million lawsuit against the school district, accusing them of negligence. Despite attempts to dismiss the claim, a judge ruled last month that the lawsuit could proceed.