The mother of a 6-year-old boy who shot his first-grade teacher in Virginia earlier this year has been sentenced to 21 months in prison for using marijuana while owning a firearm. Deja Taylor pleaded guilty to two federal charges - the unlawful use of a controlled substance while possessing a firearm and making a false statement while purchasing the firearm. The boy used his mother's gun to shoot his teacher, Abigail Zwerner, at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News on January 6th. Zwerner survived her injuries and has since filed a $40 million lawsuit against the school district.

Taylor's defense attorney argued for probation, special conditions, and counseling instead of a prison sentence. In addition to the federal charges, Taylor has also pleaded guilty to a state charge of felony child neglect. She is expected to be sentenced for that on December 15th. The 6-year-old boy, who reportedly has "extreme emotional issues," will not face criminal charges. Taylor's attorney stated that she has no criminal record and has cooperated with authorities since the shooting.