BREAKING: Sheriff’s Office investigating threat of violence at Millbrook Junior High School

Students and staff at Millbrook Junior High School in Millbrook will notice an increased police presence at their school tomorrow, Tuesday, Jan. 4 as the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate what they describe as a credible threat of violence at the school.

In a statement, the sheriff’s office said they launched their investigation Dec. 29 when they received a report that a student at the school had made comments on social media involving the carrying out of “acts of violence against students and faculty” at an undisclosed date at the school at 8411 Fox River Drive in Millbrook.

“As a result of the diligent investigation by sheriff’s deputies, assistance from the Newark Community Unit School District, and cooperation from the family of the juvenile making the threats, the potential for violent acts by this student has been mitigated,” the statement reads.

The sheriff’s office said since the incident was reported to them during the school’s winter break, there was no immediate risk to any students or staff.

According to the statement, sheriff’s deputies met with a complainant and were able to review the messages and determined that they were credible.

“The investigation determined the juvenile did not appear to have immediate access to weapons and no additional steps were identified to have been taken towards carrying out any of the reported threats,” the statement reads.

Sheriff’s deputies are currently reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident for potential criminal violations.

In the statement, Sheriff Dwight Baird said threats of this nature can never be taken lightly.

Baird added, “The bravery of this classmate to report the comments to law enforcement must be commended. Due to this report, a horrific tragedy was possibly averted. I strongly encourage any other students, family, or friends to report any type of messages or activity that could be a sign of school violence to your school or law enforcement.” 

Baird concluded, “The swift action by deputies to identify and locate this troubled student and coordinate with the school shows the dedication we have to ensure our communities and schools are safe.”