Father of School Shooter Faces Charges for Allowing Access to Firearms
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Jeffrey Rupnow, the father of a 15-year-old girl who tragically killed a student and a teacher at Abundant Life Christian School in December, had his bail set at $20,000 during his court appearance on Friday. Rupnow, 42, is facing serious charges including two felony counts of intentionally providing a dangerous weapon to a minor causing death, and one felony count of contributing to the delinquency of a child. If convicted, he could face up to 18 years in prison.
On December 12, Natalie Rupnow opened fire at her school, resulting in the deaths of 14-year-old Rubi Bergara and teacher Erin Michelle West, with six others injured before taking her own life. In court, Rupnow’s attorney, Bruce Davey, argued that his client could not pay the bail and requested a signature bond, highlighting that Rupnow has no prior criminal record and has cooperated with authorities during the investigation.
Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne recommended a higher bail amount of $100,000, emphasizing the gravity of the incident and the loss of life involved. A GPS monitoring device would be installed if Rupnow posts bail, along with restrictions on contact with people associated with the school and prohibitions on firearm possession.
Investigators revealed that Rupnow had bought handguns for his daughter to foster their relationship, unaware of her troubled mental state. In the aftermath, he admitted, via a message to law enforcement, that he regretted teaching her safe gun handling and advised police to warn others about securing firearms properly.
This case highlights an increasing trend of holding parents criminally responsible for their children’s actions related to gun violence in schools.
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