UMVA has learned that a stunning development has unfolded in the case of Ebony Parker, the former assistant principal accused of ignoring warnings before a 6-year-old child shot a teacher at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News.
In a shocking turn of events, a Virginia judge has dismissed all criminal charges against Parker, citing that the prosecution had not made a strong enough case. Circuit Court Judge Rebecca Robinson delivered the verdict, stating that if Parker's actions were meant to be considered a crime, it would need to be codified by the legislature.
The charges, which included eight counts of felony child neglect, alleged that Parker had shown a reckless disregard for human life. However, the judge's dismissal ends the criminal proceedings against Parker, who was potentially facing up to five years in prison on each count.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that the trial had begun with opening statements just days ago, and the prosecution had called 16 witnesses, including the injured teacher, Abigail Zwerner. Zwerner took the stand, recounting the harrowing moment when her 6-year-old student opened fire on her in January 2023.
Zwerner's testimony described the student's aggressive behavior leading up to the shooting, including an incident where he grabbed and smashed her cellphone. The teacher described the child as "very defiant" and having a "challenging face" before the phone incident.
In a related development, Zwerner was awarded $10 million in a civil trial against Newport News Public Schools, accusing the school division and administrators of gross negligence and alleging they ignored multiple warnings and failed to prevent the shooting.
The case has raised many questions about accountability and the actions of school administrators in the face of concerning student behavior. Parker's dismissal is a significant twist in a saga that has left many searching for answers.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that the community is still reeling from the aftermath of the shooting, and the debate over school safety and administrative responsibility continues to unfold.
