Grandma Sentenced To 22 Years For Shooting Grandson


A Michigan grandma has been sentenced to 22 years for shooting her grandson six times. Sandra Layne, age 75, is accused of killing Johnathan Hoffman, age 22, as he tried to call 911 for help.

Layne defended her actions, claiming she killed her grandson in self-defense. Hoffman moved in with his grandmother in West Bloomfield, as sister was receiving care in Arizona for a brain tumor.

As reported by the Detroit Free Press, Layne testified that she purchased the gun as she became fearful of her grandson. Hoffman reportedly abused numerous drugs, including synthetic marijuana, which was found in his system the day of the shooting.

Layne explained that on the evening in question, she and her grandson had a verbal argument that continued to escalate. Hoffman was fearful of being incarcerated due to his positive drug screening. Layne states that her grandson threatened her and demanded money so he could run away.

Despite her self-defense argument, a jury found Layne guilty of second degree murder on March 19. On Thursday April 18, the grandma was sentenced to 22 years for shooting her grandson.

Speaking before the sentencing Layne expressed remorse, stating that she wished she had never purchased the gun. As reported by CBS News, She blamed her daughter several times for leaving the teen with her, knowing that he was troubled and abused drugs.

Layne’s daughter, Jennifer Hoffman, also spoke before sentencing, stating that her mother was “pure evil and, if given the opportunity, would surely kill again.”

Judge Denise Langford Morris sentenced Layne to a minimum of 22 years and a maximum of 40 years in prison. Second degree murder in Michigan is normally punishable with a sentence of 12 to 20 years. However, Judge Langford Morris found the circumstances of the case especially troubling.

During sentencing the judge pointed out that “grandmothers are supposed to protect.”

As Layne is 75-years-old, the sentence of 22 years is likely a life sentence. As the judge read her decision the grandma sobbed uncontrollably as her daughter grinned and gave her a “thumbs-up.”

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