Stun gun used on several Shepard HS students in 'horseplay' incident, principal says

PALOS HEIGHTS, Ill. (WLS) -- A student has been charged with aggravated battery and unlawful use of a weapon after he brought a stun gun to school and used it on several students at Shepard High School in suburban Palos Heights, police said.

A spokesperson for the Cook County Sheriff said the 17-year-old boy from Alsip used the stun gun on four male students ranging in age from 14 to 17. Police said there were no apparent injuries, but one student was taken to the hospital at his parent's request.

Principal Josh Barron described the incident as a "horseplay" incident. He said the student brought the stun gun to the school on Friday and was showing it off before he used it on several students.

Barron said he believes the student failed to understand the seriousness of the issue.

"We live in a very different world, and we have to take all issues very seriously because you never know when it's going to be a serious situation. And I don't think he had any malicious intentions here, he thought he was being funny, and it's not funny, it's a major issue. Thank God our kids are safe," Barron said.

Barron said the incident happened in a supervised area of the school. A school employee saw the incident and quickly confiscated the stun gun. The school also called police. In addition to criminal charges, Barron said the student is facing serious discipline at school.

Barron said the stun gun was shaped like a flashlight and did not shoot prongs. He said it was similar to what police use, but did not use the same voltage. Barron said he believes the student bought the stun gun on the internet.