Deja Nicole Taylor, Unlawful Firearm Possession and Making a False Statement, Virginia 2023

NEWPORT NEWS, VA – The woman whose handgun was used in the shocking shooting of a first-grade teacher at Richneck Elementary School earlier this year has admitted to illegally obtaining the weapon and lying on federal forms to do so. Deja Nicole Taylor, 25, of Newport News, pleaded guilty today to unlawful firearm possession and making a false statement on an ATF form, according to the Department of Justice.

The case stems from the January 6, 2023, incident where a six-year-old male child shot and severely injured his teacher with a Taurus, Model PT111, G2A, 9mm semiautomatic handgun. An ATF trace quickly revealed that Taylor purchased the firearm on July 19, 2022. Federal agents raided her home just days after the shooting, uncovering a trove of evidence linking her to ongoing drug use. Narcotics packaging, paraphernalia, marijuana, and ammunition were all seized.

The search wasn’t limited to Taylor’s residence. Agents also searched the home of her mother, where Taylor was staying at the time, finding another 24.5 grams of marijuana and related items. Even more damning, a review of Taylor’s phone revealed a pattern of extensive marijuana use through text messages. Crucially, investigators found no evidence of a lockbox or trigger lock – devices that could have secured the weapon and potentially prevented the tragedy.

This isn’t the first time Taylor’s drug use and disregard for safety have come to light. A 2021 traffic stop in Williamsburg revealed a vehicle packed with narcotics and located dangerously close to her then four-year-old son, John Doe. The Williamsburg Police Department found marijuana edibles next to the child, along with significant quantities of marijuana, suspected crack cocaine, oxycodone, and digital scales. During the stop, Taylor denied any knowledge of the drugs. Despite this, the cycle continued, ultimately culminating in the purchase of the handgun used at Richneck Elementary.

“It is clear from this case that enforcement of our existing federal firearm laws is critical to ensuring public safety,” stated U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Jessica D. Aber. “Federal requirements for firearm ownership are not optional.” ATF Washington Field Division Special Agent in Charge Craig B. Kailimai added, “Anyone that is an unlawful user of or addicted to controlled substances such as marijuana are prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law.” The ATF will continue to work with partners to hold those who violate these laws accountable.

While the specifics of Taylor’s sentencing have not yet been released, she now faces significant federal penalties for her actions. The case underscores a troubling reality: existing laws meant to keep guns out of the hands of those who pose a risk are only effective if they are enforced and followed. The consequences of failure were tragically on display at Richneck Elementary, and the fallout continues to reverberate through the community.

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