Last fall, Illinois libraries faced a slew of bomb threats. Fortunately, the threats were not real. However, calling in a false bomb or shooting threat is not viewed as a harmless prank. If your child engages in such behavior, they could face serious consequences leading to both criminal prosecution and expulsion from school.
If the school is intending to proceed against your child, they will notify you of your child’s right to a hearing. It is essential to contact an attorney immediately in order to protect your child’s rights. You should not try to explain your child’s situation or mental state to the school. The school may take your statements out of context and use them against your child.
Also, the school and/or police may ask to see family phones or computers. Do not turn over this evidence without speaking to an attorney. Police generally need a search warrant to see the contents of a phone or computer. Schools also must follow rules.
If your child is in trouble for making threats, contact an experienced criminal and/or school law attorney immediately. An attorney can review your child’s situation for their best possible defense. Even if the evidence is overwhelming, an attorney may help you negotiate an exit from the school and a more favorable plea agreement from the prosecutor.
If you have questions about this or another related Illinois criminal or traffic matter, please contact Matt Keenan at 847-568-0160 or email matt@mattkeenanlaw.com.
(Besides Skokie, Matt Keenan also serves the communities of Arlington Heights, Chicago, Deerfield, Des Plaines, Evanston, Glenview, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Northbrook, Park Ridge, Rolling Meadows, Wilmette and Winnetka.)
