Highland Park Police Get Firearm Restraining Order Against Man Over Social Media Threat

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — A local man who posted images of guns on social media along with a caption implying a threat of violence has cooperated with police and sought help voluntarily, city staff announced Wednesday.

In the recent Facebook post, images of which were widely disseminated in the community, the man posted a advertisement for AK-47 rifles and said he had just "purchased a few of these down in Florida. Brought 'em up north to get my revenge on the North Shore."

Once Highland Park police were made aware of the post, they spoke to the man and searched his home for guns, according to the statement from staff.

"The individual is not lawfully able to purchase or possess any firearms, and none were located after a search of his property," it said.

Nonetheless, local authorities then sought firearms restraining order with the Lake County courts, further banning the man from legally having a gun, which was granted by a judge.

According to the statement, "our staff made the appropriate notification to the Illinois State Police Firearm Services Bureau, and the individual has voluntarily sought assistance."

City officials encouraged the public to share any concerns about public safety so police can review it properly.

In another social media post, the man posted a picture of a shirt emblazoned with the message, "without freedom of speech we wouldn't know who the idiots are."