EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Gibbons and Madison County Sheriff John Lakin on Thursday announced the arrest and charging of an 18-year-old Godfrey man with two felony charges associated with terrorism.
Keaun Cook has been charged with one count of making a terrorist threat and one count of material support for terrorism, both Class X felonies.
On Aug. 24, deputies from the Madison County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the 1300 block of Sir Galahad Lane in Godfrey in reference to a welfare check. In meeting with Cook and his family members, deputies developed evidence linking Cook to possible regional terrorist threats.
Preliminary investigation confirms Cook has been in contact with individuals he believed would be capable of committing a mass casualty terrorist attack. Federal authorities were contacted to assist in the investigation. Potential targets and local law enforcement agencies were also contacted immediately to provide heightened security and ensure that no one is at risk. Cook was taken into custody and he remains at the Madison County Jail.
At this time, there is no credible evidence of a scheduled event at any one location; however, in the event that evidence of a credible risk is developed, those affected will immediately be notified.
“Thanks to the individual who immediately alerted authorities of the actions of this man, and the serious response executed by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, a potentially chaotic and deadly event in the area has been prevented,” Gibbons said in a press release. “My staff is working closely in coordination with the Sheriff’s Office, local law enforcement, and federal authorities to ensure that there is no further risk to the public.”
Cook is in custody at the Madison County Jail in Edwardsville. His bond was set at $150,000. making a terrorist threat is a Class X felony with a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. Material support for terrorism is a Class X felony with a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison.
These charges, as well as the statements made herein, are based upon probable cause. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.