Sheriff's Officials Say Father of Shooter Made Threats From Jail

James Crumbley, on trial on involuntary manslaughter charges in the Michigan high school shooting carried out by his son, Ethan, has had his communications from jail restricted after sheriff's officials told a judge he was making threats from behind bars. Oakland Circuit Judge Cheryl Matthew issued the order limiting Crumbley to contact with his attorney and clergy, the Detroit News reports. Prosecutors said the restrictions would end once a verdict is reached in Crumbley's trial.

In the meantime, "Mr. Crumbley's communications will be revoked, but not his ability to do research or otherwise participate in his own defense," Oakland County Chief Assistant Prosecutor David Williams said, per CNN. No one specified who was being threatened or with what, but sheriff's officials said the messages were being delivered by phone and email. His son killed four students: Hana St. Juliana, 14; Madisyn Baldwin, 17; Tate Myre, 16; and Justin Shilling, 17. James Crumbley could receive 15 years in prison if convicted. His wife, Jennifer, already has been convicted of involuntary manslaughter, and his son has received a life sentence without the possibility of parole. (More James Crumbley stories.)