14-year-old girl entered her mother’s bedroom and shot her twice in the head, then sent a message to her stepdad to lure him to the home before shooting him in the shoulder; rejects plea deal
Mississippi – In a courtroom drama in Mississippi, a teenage girl stood resolute against a plea deal that could have drastically reduced her prison time, opting instead for a trial that could potentially send her to prison for life. The 15-year-old girl, identified as C. Gregg, made a decision that stunned many onlookers as she turned down an offer from the state that would have landed her in prison for 40 years, choosing to take her chances at trial where she faces two possible life sentences.
The incident unfolded on March 19, when Greeg, then just 14, allegedly took a drastic and violent turn against her own family. Authorities claim that after a dispute over personal belongings with her mother, identified as A. Smylie. Gregg shot her mother twice in the head, killing her at their home. What unfolded next was a series of actions that shocked the community and law enforcement alike.
After the fatal shooting, Gregg reportedly invited a friend over to her house, showing them her mother’s lifeless body in what was described as a moment of macabre show-and-tell. The situation escalated when Gregg’s stepfather arrived home later that day, only to be met with gunfire that injured his shoulder. He survived after a physical struggle with Gregg, who attempted to continue her assault.
During the pretrial conference, the seriousness of the situation was palpable. Judge D. Arthur confirmed the details of the plea deal Gregg rejected and outlined the severe repercussions she faced if convicted at trial. The teen seemed aware of the gravity of her decision, affirming her understanding of the potential consequences, including two life sentences or up to 93 years behind bars.
Gregg’s defense has hinted at significant mental health concerns, noting her behavior in jail included hearing voices and reacting to medication changes. Just one week before the incident, Gregg had switched to Lexapro, an antidepressant, from another medication. This change, her defense suggests, might have influenced her actions—a point likely to be central in her upcoming trial.
The investigation revealed a chilling level of premeditation involved in the crimes Gregg is accused of committing. Evidence presented by investigators included text messages used to lure her stepfather to the home and her interactions with her friend post-murder. The community has been left reeling by the brutality of the crime and the young age of the alleged perpetrator. The sheriff’s office described the case as one of the most horrific instances of child abuse and familial violence they have encountered. The shock has permeated the community, leaving many to wonder how a young girl could allegedly commit such heinous acts.
As the trial date approaches, all eyes are on the forthcoming mental evaluation scheduled to clarify Gregg’s psychological state. This evaluation could play a pivotal role in the trial, potentially affecting the judgment or mitigation of her sentencing. The case raises profound questions about the intersection of youth, mental health, and the justice system, as Gregg prepares to face a trial that will undoubtedly shape the rest of her life. Whether justice will be served remains to be seen, but the tragedy has already left indelible marks on all involved.
