Indiana Teens Charged in High School Shooting Plot

Two 17-year-olds, Alexis Pickett and Melanie Little, have been charged as adults with attempted murder and conspiracy in connection with a planned shooting at Morristown High School in Shelbyville, Indiana. The investigation began in December 2022 when Pickett's mother, Rhonda Nicholson, alerted authorities about her daughter's concerning behavior, which included discussions about past school shootings and intentions to harm others. Court documents indicate that Pickett, a student at the school, and Little, from Corinth, Mississippi, coordinated their plans through social media platforms, particularly Discord.

The Independent

According to a probable cause affidavit, Pickett shared video footage of the school's layout with Little, detailing hallways and potential escape routes. The two discussed the timing of the attack, with Pickett suggesting a mass shooting around the time of graduation, specifically on May 25, 2023, despite the actual graduation date being two days earlier. Pickett reportedly owns a muzzleloader firearm and had shown Little images of her shooting targets with a shotgun and a .357 revolver. The pair also contemplated how to acquire additional firearms.

The Independent

Both teens face serious charges: one count of attempted murder and one count of conspiracy to commit murder, each carrying a potential sentence of 20 to 40 years in prison. In addition, Pickett has been charged with intimidation. She is currently held in jail on a $1 million cash bond, with her trial scheduled to begin on April 20, 2023. Little is in custody in Mississippi, where Indiana officials are initiating the extradition process after she declined to waive it.

The Independent

Shelby County Prosecutor Brad Landwerlen commended Pickett's mother for her proactive approach, stating, "The mother saved a bunch of lives." He emphasized the importance of parental vigilance regarding their children's online activities and conversations.

The Independent

While the investigation has been largely focused on the actions of Pickett and Little, some community members have raised concerns about the broader implications of youth violence and the accessibility of firearms. Critics argue that more needs to be done to address mental health issues and prevent such plots from developing in the first place.

The Independent

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case will likely draw attention to issues surrounding school safety, mental health, and gun access among minors. The upcoming trial for Pickett will be a focal point for discussions on these critical topics.

The Independent