A man from Beach Park in Lake County, Illinois, was arrested this past weekend for allegedly bringing a loaded AR-15 rifle with “penetrator rounds” to a Halloween party in Antioch. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. when Antioch police responded to a noise complaint about a party on Ida Avenue. Upon arrival, officers discovered a crowd of over 300 people.
Antioch police requested additional assistance and began the process of dispersing the gathering, which took more than four hours to completely clear. Eventually, one individual was apprehended. Tabiest Hearton, a convicted felon on probation for a previous weapons offense, was found in possession of an assault weapon loaded with green tip .223 rounds, commonly known as “penetrator rounds” due to their ability to penetrate hard targets. Police discovered the firearm on the floorboard of his vehicle, with the safety disengaged.
The 23-year-old now faces four felony charges. If convicted on all counts, Hearton could be sentenced to up to 12 years in prison. He appeared in court on Sunday and was ordered to be held without bond.
In addition to the arrest, authorities have determined that the party was organized by individuals who have been causing similar disturbances in various Lake County communities. The Antioch party was hosted by outsiders, not residents of the village.
Antioch police have warned that more charges may be forthcoming. Police Chief Geoffery Guttschow emphasized that property owners who allow such lawless and dangerous events to occur will face severe consequences, with the full resources of the department and legal team being utilized.
The investigation into the incident is still ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact Antioch police at 847-270-9111 or send an email to crime@antioch.il.gov.
