Sins of the Child

by Law&Crime

On November 30, 2021, when Ethan Crumbley opened fire on his classmates at Oxford High School killing four students, the reactions to this modern American phenomenon were sadly familiar. The events that unfolded in the aftermath of the Michigan shooting, however, were anything but. The teenage assailant’s parents, Jennifer and James, were thrust into the national spotlight, when, in an unprecedented turn of events, the two were charged in connection with their son’s acts of violence. Raising questions about parental responsibility, agency and what could have been done to prevent the heartbreaking tragedy, Law and Crime presents the most in-depth analysis to date – exploring these complex questions and more by taking you behind the scenes of the historic trials of Jennifer and James Crumbley in SINS OF THE CHILD. Binge all episodes of Sins of the Child ad-free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/sins-of-the-child/ now.

What listeners say

A curated, balanced selection of Apple Podcasts reviews.

I live in Michigan and followed the crime and trial. I still learned much more from this well-made, written and delivered pod.

PW from GR · Sep 2024

Interesting story. I liked the narration, didn’t like the male reporter interjecting randomly at times. I enjoyed hearing the courtroom tapes, but agree with everyone else about the story missing another perspective- from the school and the school’s negligence. Adding this would’ve been real reporting, not simply reporting what’s already been reported.

L. R. D. 2 · Sep 2024

This is an important look at how and when parents can be held responsible for their child’s terrible deeds. The parents in this situation were held accountable for their wrong doing. The victim impact statements were very moving and a deeply important part of the story.

composeyourself · Aug 2024

I enjoyed listening to the legal arguments. It’s a little redundant at times but generally a well made podcast.

Ree ree ree · Jun 2024

Entertaining for those who have no interest in crime and law and just want some salacious entertainment. Completely biased towards the Good Vs Evil narrative, discounting any genuine consideration of the mental health crisis in this country. School shootings are inherently an American problem for a reason. Gruesome details over and over victims impact statements over and over and very little genuine attempt to understand the full picture.

helen007! · Jun 2024

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