The trial the father of the Highland Park shooter took place this past Monday. Prosecutors proclaimed that the father of Robert E. Crimo III should have been aware of what was to come from his son when he allowed him to legally own a gun.
Before obtaining his FOID card, Robert E. Crimo III threatened his own family members with violence, according to prosecutors. This incident was reported to the police and his father was aware.
In 2019, Robert applied for his FOID card (Identification for Firearm Owners in Illinois), he was 19. In Illinois, individuals under 21 must have a parent’s permission and signature on a FOID application to gain permission to own a firearm. Since he was 19, he needed the signature of a parent, which his father provided.
Evidence and charges
Prosecutors claimed that the father of the shooter, Robert Crimo III was “Criminally Reckless.” Officials collected evidence to showcase the violent behavior of Robert Jr’s son, to present in court.
While investigating the suspects criminal history, they found police reports regarding a couple of violent outburst towards himself and others. On one occasion, Robert was reported to have attempted to take his own life with a machete. Due to this incident, police were notified to perform a wellness check and visit the home.
The evidence which was presented showed the fathers acknowledgement of his sons capabilities. For this reason, it is believed that the father of the Highland Park shooter needs to be punished as well.
As planned Robert Jr’s trial took place on Monday. Lake County State’s attorney, Eric Rinehart, confirmed that Robert Jr. pleaded guilty to all seven counts of misdemeanor reckless conduct.
As for his punishment, Robert E. Crimo III’s father will serve 60 days in jail and two years probation. He will also be forced to turn in his FOID card and will not be allowed to sign for any minors in the future. Robert Jr. is expected to commence his jail time on November 15.
On the other hand, the Highland Park shooter pled not guilty to 21 first degree murder counts, 48 counts of aggravated battery, and 48 counts of attempted murder.
Highland Park Shooting
During a Fourth of July celebration in Highland Park, the now 21-year-old Robert E. Crimo III, carried out an attack on the parade. Unfortunately, seven people died and a few more were wounded. The wounded and deceased ranged between the ages 8 to 85.
Officers believed the attack had been premeditated. In the attempt to conceal his identity, Robert dressed himself as a woman. Once Robert arrived at the soon to be crime scene, he climbed his way up to a nearby business’s rooftop. The police reports explain how just moments after the parade begun, the shooting broke out.
From the rooftop, Robert shot and killed seven people. Furthermore, he shooter used a Smith & Wesson M&P15 semi automatic rifle, and two 30 round magazines. After further investigation officers collected camera footage which captures Robert E Crimo III running away right when the shooting ended. In the surveillance footage, Robert is seen running away with a large duffle bag.
While running away, Robert dropped the bag leaving it behind. in the bag was the Smith & Wesson rifle. Later officers learned that he rifle which the shooter obtained was legally bought with the permission of the father.
Police received a tip from an individual who spotted Robert fleeing the scene in his mom’s car. Shortly after, during a traffic stop, police found him driving said vehicle. He was detained and taken into custody. The judge held him without bond.
Message of the case
In past similar cases, parents of young criminals were not held accountable for any sort of involvement in their child’s crime.
However, this case changed that narrative. Some may say it is fair and beneficial, others may disagree. Subsequently, this case certainly brought attention to the effect parents have on their children’s actions. Additionally, it brought awareness to the danger of allowing minors to have access to firearms.
Written by Meredith Garcia
Resources
CNN: Father of Highland Park shooting suspect pleads guilty to misdemeanor reckless conduct charges in deal with prosecutors
NBC: Father of highland park parade shooting suspect pleads guilty to reckless conduct in plea deal
CNN: Highland Park shooting suspect Robert E. Crimo III pleads not guilty to 117 criminal charges
Top and Featured Image Courtesy Mark Ou’s of Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
First Inset Image Courtesy of Mike W’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
