Champaign police arrested a University of Illinois student for making terrorist-like threats to other students.
On August 31, 2013, officers responded to a home in the 200 Block of E. Armory for a resident making terrorist-like threats. According to witnesses, DANY SAMMAK, 19, of Champaign made repeated terrorist-like threats against other residents and the University of Illinois. He also made references to the Virginia Tech shooting. Witnesses report that SAMMAK frequently made shooting gestures, with his hands, at other residents. SAMMAK was arrested for making terrorists threats, and transported to the Champaign County Jail.
Since the arrest, the Champaign Police Department, University of Illinois Police Department, and the FBI-Joint Terrorism Task Force worked around the clock to determine the validity of Sammak’s threats. The investigative team obtained a warrant to search SAMMAK’s residence, computer, and other personal property. The team conducted several interviews and consulted with other agents around the world as they sorted through the information obtained from the residence and interviews. Based on the investigation, the investigative team believes Sammak is not part of a larger plot to harm others. The investigative team will continue to work closely with the University of Illinois staff on this case
As a result of the information gathered by the investigative team, the Champaign County State’s Attorney’s Office charged Sammak with Disorderly Conduct (Class 4 Felony) and bond was set at $250,000.
“I commend the students who promptly reported this incident to law enforcement. I advise anyone who may be concerned about these types of threats to come forward immediately with information. It is always better to err on the side of caution, in these types of cases,” says Chief Anthony Cobb.
The public is urged to contact law enforcement with any information. Information can be reported to the Champaign Police Department by calling (217) 351-4545, or callers can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 373-8477 (TIPS). Information can also be sent by anonymous web tip by going to: www.373tips.com or by texting keyword “CCTIP” plus the information to 274637 (CRIMES). Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1000 for information leading to an arrest.
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