Threatening social media post leads to firearms restraining order against resident

A recent social media post threatening gun violence in the North Shore resulted in an investigation from the Highland Park Police Department.

The City of Highland Park reported on Wednesday that Lake County granted a firearms restraining order against a resident who on Facebook posted a photo of assault-style firearms with the message, “Just purchased a few of these down in Florida. Brought ’em up north to get my revenge on the North Shore.”

The Record is choosing not to republish an image of the social media post because of the distress it may cause.

The post was republished to a Highland Park group on Tuesday, April 23, with a message urging community members to report the threat.

The City says upon hearing of the post, police “immediately began an investigation” in which they spoke to the original poster and discovered the individual could not lawfully purchase or possess firearms. Police also reportedly did not find any firearms during a search of the poster’s property.

The City successfully petitioned the county circuit court for a firearms restraining order, which prohibits an individual from possessing or purchasing a firearm or firearm parts. City staff also notified state authorities of the situation, the release says.

In its message, the City of Highland Park urges residents to continue to report suspicious activity and behavior.

“Public safety is one of the City’s top priorities and we continue to encourage to public to share any concerns so they can be properly reviewed,” the message reads. “All community members, including residents, business owners, and employees, can help by reporting suspicious behaviors, threats, or other activity to law enforcement by calling 911.”

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