Teen Accused Of Threatening Student With Airsoft Gun In West Chicago

WEST CHICAGO, IL — A West Chicago High School student faces felony charges after police say he threatened another student with an airsoft gun Monday.

Police say the 15-year-old boy pulled the airsoft gun from his backpack at the end of the school day and told the other student, "I'm going to shoot you." The victim told school officials and the boy was taken into custody later that day while he was at his home.

“I understand that with finals upon us students are under pressure, but threats as alleged in this case are not harmless jokes or an excuse to blow off steam,” DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin said in a news release.

Berlin added, “They have a chilling effect not just on students, teachers and staff, but also on parents, siblings and the entire community. Regardless of the accused’s intentions, my office takes any threat of school violence extremely seriously and anyone suspected of making such actions will be investigated and charged accordingly.”

The teen was charged with felony disorderly conduct and will be detained until his next court appearance, which is set for May 13.