by T. C. Mayfield, The Chicago Times
December 15, 2021
WOOD DALE, IL — On December 13, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Wood Dale Chief of Police Greg Vesta revealed that an Indian Trail Middle School student has been accused of sending a threatening message to Wood Dale Junior High School over social media.
The adolescent, who resides in Addison, appeared at a detention hearing last Friday and was ordered held by Judge Anthony Coco. He has been charged with Disorderly Conduct, a Class 4 Felony.
On December 9, 2021, the 12-year-old juvenile is accused of posting a message on social media that stated, “(Expletive) school I didn’t go im already planned to the drive by.”
The Wood Dale Police Department identified the adolescent as a suspect after being notified to the threat. The suspect was taken into custody without incident later that day from his residence.
“There have been fifteen threats directed towards DuPage County Schools so far in 2021 . . . In addition to disrupting the school day, these threats instill dread and worry in the whole community, not just those at the school.
I’d want to remind and urge kids, faculty, and parents that if you see anything, say something.
As I have already stated, these threats must cease, and any threat of violence targeted at a school will be investigated promptly and, if genuine, will be prosecuted. I applaud the Wood Dale Police Department for their prompt reaction and arrest of the culprit in this matter, as well as the Wood Dale School District for reporting law enforcement to the occurrence. I also want to thank Assistant State’s Attorney Jennifer Lindt for her efforts in making our schools as secure as possible.” Berlin stated.
“Our kids’, teachers’, and community members’ safety is our top priority, and we will continue to take any direct or implied threats of danger seriously. Regardless of the purpose behind these threats, we will utilize every resource available to hold those responsible for instilling fear in our community accountable. I appreciate our good collaboration with the Wood Dale School District to emphasize our children’ safety.” Vesta stated.
The next court appearance for the Juvenile is set on December 15, 2021, for a status hearing.
A bench trial in front of Judge Coco has been set for January 5, 2022.
The Chicago Times 