Chesney Responds After Guilty Plea in Threat Case

FREEPORT— State Senator Andrew Chesney issued a statement after Joseph Haggerty pleaded guilty in a case involving threatening emails sent to the senator. Prosecutors said Haggerty pleaded guilty to Attempt Threatening a Public Official and was sentenced to 24 months of probation with 60 days of jail time, along with required drug, alcohol, and mental health evaluations and treatment. Chesney thanked law enforcement and said accountability and rehabilitation were both important. The Stephenson County State’s Attorney’s Office said the plea includes a no contact order with Chesney, his family, and staff.