Teen admits to MySpace threats to Huntley High teachers, students

A former Huntley High School student admitted in court Friday he described killing his teachers and classmates last year on his MySpace page.

William Kuhns, 18, of Huntley, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of disorderly conduct as part of a negotiated plea that places him under court supervision for six months and requires him to pay a $200 fine and perform 100 hours of community service.

If Kuhns does not commit another offense over the next six months, a conviction will not go on his record.

Assistant McHenry County State's Attorney Demetri Tsilimigras said he spoke with Huntley High School teachers, as well as village police, community leaders and Kuhns' neighbors before agreeing to the plea deal.

"All spoke very highly of the defendant and believe he is not a threat to the community," Tsilimigras said. "He's been very involved in his church (since the incident) and is doing very well in school."

The charge alleged that on or about Oct. 11, 2007, Kuhns made statements on his MySpace page about killing Huntley High students and teachers, and asked others to help him accomplish that task. He was charged about a week later when the information reached school administrators.

Tsilimigras said there is no indication Kuhns was serious about harming anyone.

"I spoke to him about it and he was very remorseful and he understands and appreciates the seriousness of the offense," he said.

Kuhns did not speak on his own behalf when given an opportunity in court Friday, but his lawyer said the matter was the result of bad judgment.

"People do stupid things and they don't always realize how it affects other people," defense attorney Brett Anderson said. "He's paying for it."

Court records indicate Kuhns is now in college.