After sending two emails threatening physical harm to State Senator Andrew Chesney (R-Freeport), Joseph Haggerty, an inspector for the City of Chicago, was arrested Tuesday and charged with two felony counts of threatening a public official.
The threatening messages were sent to Senator Chesney’s government email address the same day he participated in a press conference that focused on illegal immigration and President Donald Trump’s proposal to deploy the National Guard to Chicago. The press conference received coverage from several major media outlets, including ABC 7 Chicago and WBBM Radio Chicago.
“I want to express my sincere appreciation to the Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigations for their professionalism, diligence, and swift action throughout this case,” said Chesney. “Their commitment to public safety is exemplary, and I am grateful to know that Mr. Haggerty will be held accountable for these felony crimes. It is deeply troubling that an inspector for the City of Chicago issued violent threats against a sitting public official, and such conduct must be met with the seriousness it deserves.”
Haggerty was taken into custody in Chicago and transported to Stephenson County. A forthcoming court hearing will determine whether he will be detained pending trial.
The public is reminded that the defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial, at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.