The parents of a boy in Serbia who shot dead nine children and a guard last year have been sentenced to prison for “severe acts against public safety” and child neglect. The boy himself cannot be prosecuted due to his age.
The father was sentenced to 14.5 years for neglect and public safety violations, while the mother was acquitted of illegal weapon possession but found guilty of neglect, receiving a 3-year sentence. Another woman, who taught the boy shooting at a range, received a 15-month sentence.
In May 2023, the then 13-year-old used his father’s gun to open fire at Vladislav Ribnikar School in Belgrade, having allegedly prepared a list of intended victims and drawings of classrooms. The attack resulted in the death of a guard and nine children.
The judge held the parents accountable for improperly storing their firearms and ammunition. The defense attorney plans to appeal amidst high public expectations and pressure.
The boy, present as a witness in the closed trial, expressed regret without explaining his motives. The families of the victims voiced disappointment with the sentences, feeling that no one has been held accountable for the murders.
Source: NOS