Ex-student pleads not guilty to Glenbard East graduation threat
A former Glenbard East student accused of planning a mass shooting at the Lombard high school’s graduation ceremony has been indicted on one count of felony disorderly conduct, prosecutors said in court Monday.
Michael Santoro, 19, of Lombard, entered a formal plea of not guilty to the charge, which carries a maximum three years in prison but is also punishable by probation. His attorney has declined to comment.
Authorities say Santoro kept a journal with “very detailed” plans for a shooting at Glenbard East’s graduation in May. He is accused of hatching the plot because he was unable to graduate from the school last year, authorities said.
Prosecutors said the teen outlined whom he would attack first and initially planned to target the school’s deans.
Santoro wrote it would be “the saddest day in Lombard,” according to prosecutors, who said he also was acquiring ammunition and had obtained a tactical vest, as well as aerial photographs of the school.
The plot was uncovered in February when an acquaintance of the defendant came forward, authorities said.
In court Monday, Assistant State’s Attorney David Friedland said he had turned over 720 pages of evidence materials to Santoro’s public defender. He said several photos and DVDs would be forthcoming.
Santoro remained in DuPage County jail and would have to post $50,000 to be released on bond. He also faces charges of drug paraphernalia possession and possession of ammunition without a valid firearm owners identification card.
The case was continued to July 22.