CALIFORNIA — March 5, 2026

A California woman known as the "Party Mom" has been convicted following a three-month trial involving alcohol-fueled parties and misconduct among high school students. The defendant, Shannon O’Connor, 51, faces a sentence of up to 30 years in prison.

Convicted on 48 serious charges

According to court records, the jury found O’Connor guilty of 48 counts, including:

  • lewd or lascivious acts
  • child endangerment
  • furnishing alcohol to minors

The charges stem from parties hosted at O’Connor’s home in San Jose, which were attended by numerous high school students.

Court testimony

Witnesses whose identities are protected by the court stated that the atmosphere at the parties made many feel unsafe. Several students testified they were treated inappropriately and suffered psychological trauma following the incidents.

According to testimony, many attendees were students around 14 years old from Los Gatos High School.

Witnesses described the gatherings as environments filled with alcohol and lacking adult supervision.

Other incidents mentioned in court

During the trial, witnesses also mentioned:

  • a party at a rental home in Santa Cruz in 2020
  • an event that resulted in approximately $9,000 in property damage
  • video and testimony showing large quantities of alcohol provided to minors

A teenager who attended the party stated there were more than 30 students present at the time.

Defendant's response after conviction

In a jailhouse call before the verdict was announced, O’Connor claimed she was being held responsible for the behavior of the teenagers attending the parties.

However, she admitted that alcohol was provided at her home and stated she felt responsible for what happened.

Defense counsel stated their client was disappointed with the jury's verdict.

Sentencing hearing upcoming

The court is scheduled to deliver the sentence on March 26, 2026.

The case has garnered significant attention in California due to concerns over student safety and adult responsibility in supervising youth activities.