Virginia Woman Sentenced to Prison for Child Neglect After Son Shoots Teacher

The mother of a 6-year-old boy who shot his teacher in a Virginia classroom has been sentenced to two years in prison for felony child neglect. Deja Taylor's sentence exceeded the recommended maximum and state sentencing guidelines. The judge emphasized the physical and psychological toll on the teacher and the emotional trauma inflicted on other students and staff. The boy obtained his mother's handgun from her purse and shot the teacher, causing critical injuries. Taylor's son spent time in inpatient treatment and now lives with his great-grandfather. The teacher is suing the school district for $40 million, and she has decided not to return to teaching due to the shooting's lasting impact.