Martinsville middle school shooter sentenced to 35 years

MARTINSVILLE, Ind. (WISH) - The teen who admitted he took a gun into Martinsville West Middle School on March 25 and intended to kill Chance Jackson was sentenced to 35 years with five years suspended Friday.

Michael Phelps admitted his guilt during a 10-minute trial last month. A judge heard sentencing testimony and handed down the sentence.

During testimony Friday, Phelps’ four siblings took the stand to testify on his behalf. One by one, they each described their home life as being troublesome and difficult. They described their mother as an alcoholic who was frequently away from home and as a parent who never disciplined the children.

Phelps’ mother also took the stand. She told the judge and attorneys that she agreed with what her children said; that she had a history of drinking. She said she believes her behavior may have contributed to some of her son’s problems.

A child psychologist testified that Phelps has average intelligence but also has severe emotional issues. He elaborated that Phelps could be suffering from borderline depression.