Teen’s Joke Leads to Legal Battle and Arrest

Arrest Following Senior Pranks Tradition

A teenager from Kendall County found himself in a legal battle after a joke in English class. Following annual senior pranks at Newark Community High School, Jackson Leggett and his friends laughed about the events. Seniors had toilet-papered the school principal’s house and parked speed boats at the school. However, when rumors spread about potential school vandalism, Leggett jokingly asked, “What do you think I’m gonna do? Burn the school down?” That remark, made in October 2024, dramatically affected his senior year.

Legal Action and Allegations

Leggett’s joke led to his arrest and a lawsuit filed in federal court against the school district, the superintendent, a teacher, Kendall County, and a sheriff’s deputy. He alleges wrongful arrest and a false felony charge of disorderly conduct, leading to missed senior milestones. At 19, Leggett described feeling “constantly nervous and scared” and suffering reputational damage. His attorney, Julia Rickert, emphasized that even students have limited First Amendment rights and that speech shouldn’t be criminalized.

Superintendent Tim Ulrich labeled the claims against the district as “meritless,” vowing to defend the accusations. Additionally, Kendall County sheriff’s office stated it conducts thorough investigations and bases charges on probable cause, without detailing ongoing litigation.

Traditional Pranks and Jokes

Senior pranks were considered a rite of passage, according to Leggett. The events, such as toilet-papering and boating at the school, were neither new nor surprising to him. The lawsuit claims that Ulrich witnessed the pranks, permitting them to continue as long as no permanent damage occurred.

Although Leggett wasn’t disciplined for the pranks, his class comments led to issues. Administrators were informed about his “bizarre” remarks, including alleged comments that Leggett denies. Despite acknowledging the joking nature, an assistant principal suspended Leggett, whom he believed faced unwarranted punishment.

The principal reportedly pushed to criminalize the comments, seeking legal action. A teacher told the deputy about Leggett’s potential escalation discussions, but the deputy’s body camera captured doubts about criminal intent.

Facing Arrest

While mowing a lawn, Leggett was approached by police and arrested, despite initially suspecting nothing unusual. Shocked, he requested relocation of his equipment, which was refused. He faced charge without prior criminal issues, feeling scared and angry.

Detained for eight days at a juvenile facility in Kane County, Leggett described the detention facility as a deeply traumatizing experience. He was isolated and deprived of sunlight. The charges were dropped in May 2025, but his ordeal left permanent psychological scars.

Educational Impact and Reputation

The lawsuit highlighted education disruptions; Leggett attended online classes, missing prom, graduation, and yearbook inclusion. He was barred from playing basketball, a beloved sport.

He faced social judgment, although friends believed his innocence. He struggled with a damaged reputation as others speculated about him. The pranks’ aftermath severely impacted his landscaping business, leading to a significant financial loss.

Due to being labeled a “clear and present danger,” Leggett can’t obtain a firearm owner’s ID, affecting his hunting hobby, important for nature enjoyment and tranquility.

Seeking Understanding and Change

Now a machine operator, Leggett hopes sharing his story clarifies misconceptions about his experience. He seeks accountability from the school and law enforcement while preventing similar incidents. Leggett wishes to raise awareness for other school communities to evaluate disciplinary and legal responses thoughtfully.