Wife of Weezer bassist avoids jail time in LAPD shooting case through mental health diversion
Jillian Shriner, 52, granted a two-year mental health diversion program that could dismiss two felony gun charges if she complies with treatment, court rules say.
LOS ANGELES — Jillian Shriner, 52, wife of Weezer bassist Scott Shriner, was granted entry into a two-year mental health diversion program after she was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following an April 9 confrontation with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in her backyard.
Authorities say the incident began when a hit-and-run suspect being sought by police entered Shriner’s property. The suspect reportedly stripped to his boxer shorts and attempted to flee by jumping into a neighbor’s pool, prompting officers to arrive at the scene where Shriner allegedly pointed a weapon and fired at officers. Shriner was shot in the arm by police during the exchange and treated for a non-life-threatening injury. She was subsequently booked on two felony gun charges: assault with a semiautomatic firearm and discharge of a firearm with gross negligence. Shriner pleaded not guilty to both charges. She was released on $1 million bail, and a 9mm handgun was seized from her home.
Under the judge’s order, Shriner will participate in a two-year mental health diversion program that could result in the charges being dismissed if successfully completed. The program requires weekly counseling and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, random drug and alcohol testing, and a prohibition on firearm possession or use. A violation of the terms could lead to termination of the diversion and reversion to prosecution, while completion would result in dismissal of the case.
Shriner’s attorney, Hilary Lee Potashner, said the legal team was pleased with the development and that Shriner’s eligibility for the program and the potential for dismissal was a positive outcome. The District Attorney’s Office has noted that, if the conditions are met, the court may dismiss the case.
On the civil front, Shriner is a best-selling author who has written memoirs and true-crime books; she has been married to Weezer bassist Scott Shriner since 2005, and the couple has two adopted children. Shriner appeared in Los Angeles Superior Court on April 30, 2025, before Judge Theresa R. McGonigle on the gun charges, continuing a case that began with the April incident and led to charges that carried a potential prison sentence of up to 19 years if convicted.