Man charged with bringing gun to Argenta-Oreana school sentenced

OREANA, Ill. (WAND) — A man charged with making threats and showing a gun at Argenta-Oreana Elementary School in December has been sentenced to probation.

Macon County court records show Michael Evans pleaded guilty to unlawful use of a weapon and violating state concealed carry laws on May 8. Other charges against him have been dropped as a result of the plea agreement.

Evans appeared in court on Friday for a sentence hearing, where he was mandated to 24 months of probation, and ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation followed by completing any recommended treatment. He was also ordered not to go on the property located at Argenta Oreana School District.

Evans was also sentenced to 30 days in the Macon County Jail with credit for 30 days previously served in custody.

The Macon County Sheriff’s Office responded to the school around 3 p.m. on December 19.

According to a sworn statement, deputies learned that a fight had happened on a bus between students. Evans, the father of one of the students, went to the school demanding the names and information of the other students involved.

Deputies said that when school officials refused to provide names and information, Evans made a threatening statement and lifted his clothing—revealing a pistol tucked into his waistband.

Deputies were later able to locate Evans and take him into custody.