Senior Prank Ends With Teens Stopped At Gunpoint, Prompts 'Zero Tolerance' Warning: Plainfield Police

PLAINFIELD, IL — A senior prank in time for homecoming week startled a homeowner, who quickly armed herself, and "easily could've ended very differently" as officers stopped the two high school students at gunpoint Tuesday night, police said.

"Last night, a local homeowner spotted two masked individuals with what looked like a rifle in her yard," Plainfield police said in a social media post. "She was alone inside, armed herself, and feared a home invasion. Officers responded quickly and stopped the suspects at gunpoint as they left."

Related: Plainfield's Annual Homecoming Event: What To Know About Road Closings, Parade Route

Police said the two people turned out to be high school seniors, "armed for their homecoming prank with masks, a large flashlight, and an abundant supply of single ply."

No one was injured, police said, "but it easily could’ve ended very differently."

In recent years, police said that during homecoming week, they've taken reports "totaling thousands of dollars in damage to homes done by eggs, glitter and glue, dented siding and dented garage doors.

"Countless residents, many of whom don’t have high schoolers, feel targeted and unsafe in their own homes," according to police, who added that homecoming traditions are great, "until they cross the line into criminal mischief, destruction of property, or dangerous behavior."

This year, the village will take a zero-tolerance approach to pranks that cross the line, according to police, who said criminal charges will be pursued where damage or danger occurs, and pranks that include trespassing, property damage or causing alarm will be taken seriously.

"'Just kidding' won't undo the consequences," police said. "We’re not here to ruin fun. We’re here to protect our community. And right now, many of our residents feel like they’re under siege, not celebrating homecoming."

The message to the community ended by telling students, "use your head," and urging parents to talk to their kids. "We want to see your school pride shine, not see you in court."

The 73rd Annual Plainfield Community Homecoming Parade will step off from Plainfield Central High School at 9 am. Saturday, Sept. 20, before winding its way through downtown.