Illinois

‘Safest Place in Dixon': Police Prepare Extra Security for Graduation Ceremony After School Shooting

According to city officials, police will have numerous uniformed and plain clothes officers at the school

Officials are planning increased security for graduation at Dixon High School, saying the upcoming ceremony for graduating seniors will be "the safest place in Dixon that day" following a school shooting that shook the town. 

“There is nothing more important than creating a safe environment to celebrate the successes of these students," City Manager Danny Langloss told students Friday, with six Dixon police officers by his side. "We have created a great plan and we are working hard to reduce fear and anxiety. Dixon High School will be the safest place in Dixon on that day.”

According to city officials, police will have numerous uniformed and plain clothes officers at the school "from the time students arrive until they leave that day." 

The reassurance comes as 19-year-old Matthew Milby appeared in Lee County Circuit Court via video conference, where his attorney entered a plea of not guilty.

Milby was charged with three counts of aggravated discharge of a firearm, all class x felonies, in connection with Wednesday's shooting. Police say the teen showed up Wednesday at Dixon High School as seniors met for a graduation rehearsal and fired several shots inside the building.

Milby, who was wounded in an exchange of gunfire with the school resource officer, was transferred Thursday from a hospital to the Lee County Jail. He is being held in lieu of $2 million bond.

Illinois State Police say Milby's mother in 2012 bought the weapon the teen used and investigators were working to determine how he obtained it. Julie Milby said her son was bullied and that she had no idea he had the gun.

Milby's next court appearance was set for May 23rd.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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