Man allegedly threatened kidnapping in extortion attempt of Highland Park family

Highland Park police arrested a local man on Saturday for alleged extortion, intimidation and arson, according to a press release from the City of Highland Park.

The man reportedly attempted to extort $80,000 from a Highland Park resident on April 28 when via text message he threatened to kidnap a family member of the resident. The arrestee also that same day allegedly set fire to the resident’s garbage can.

In the subsequent days, according to the release, the offender sent more threatening text messages to the resident. Highland Park police’s investigation reportedly determined the source of the messages, leading them to the offender.

“Prompt reporting as occurred in this case is critical to facilitating investigation and preventing future criminal activity,” the city’s message reads. “Residents should call 911 in the event of threatening or suspicious behavior.”

He was charged with arson, harassment through electronic communication and six counts of felony intimidation. He first appeared in court Sunday, May 4, and remains detained upon request from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

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