NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) – The mother of the 6-year-old who shot his first grade teacher at Richneck Elementary School in January appeared in court Friday morning.
25 year-old Deja Taylor is faces charges of felony child neglect and a misdemeanor for recklessly leaving a loaded firearm where a child could access it.
Outside of the courthouse on Friday Taylor’s attorney, Jim Ellenson, told reporters there are several mitigating factors in the case including a medical issue.
“She has had a number of miscarriages and she had a very severe miscarriage – an ectopic pregnancy miscarriage- that was in January of 2022 that resulted in Postpartum depression and that has been a large factor in a number of the events that led up to the unfortunate event on January 6th.” Ellenson said.
Ellenson did not explain how Taylor’s depression might have contributed to her son bringing a gun to school and shooting his teacher.
When asked about the gun, Ellenson said they stand by the family statement issued Jan. 19, 2023. It stated the firearm was secured.
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Taylor turned herself in Thursday morning to the Newport News City Jail. Taylor posted a $5,000 bond and was then released.
Taylor was indicted by a grand jury Monday and was charged with felony child neglect and misdemeanor recklessly leaving a loaded firearm so as to endanger a child.
Taylor’s trial is set for August 15. Ellenson said they hope to enter into a plea deal before that time.
10 On Your Side’s Stephanie Hudson will have more information on WAVY News 10 starting at 4 p.m.