Court case continued for Bartlett teacher in liquid nitrogen case

A longtime Bartlett High School chemistry teacher accused of pouring liquid nitrogen on a student's chest and groin during a science experiment this spring had his case continued Tuesday until Aug. 20.

DuPage County Judge James Konetski, however, signed a protective order barring any photos generated as evidence in the case from being disseminated to anyone other than prosecutors, defense attorneys or their respective experts.

Garry Brodersen, 63, of the 0-10 block of North Grove Street in Carpentersville, is free on $1,500 bail. He was charged with reckless conduct in late June after court documents allege his actions left the student with burns to his groin and a finger.

A cellphone video purporting to show the experiment has been circulating via social media since May 15. The student was lying on his back in the classroom when Broderson poured a small amount of the liquid nitrogen on the boy's chest, with the liquid evaporating as it hit the air.

After a few seconds, a much larger amount was poured on the boy's groin. The boy immediately jumped to his feet in apparent pain.

Elgin Area School District U-46 has not responded to requests for comment and an update on Brodersen's status, but officials previously said Brodersen was placed on paid administrative leave pending an investigation shortly after the case came to light.

Brodersen declined to comment Tuesday. Bartlett police officials, who investigated the allegations, also declined to comment, saying new state statutes prevent them from commenting on cases involving a juvenile victim.