A teen from Comstock Park High School is charged with terrorism after investigators say he made threats against students at two West Michigan high schools.
Benjamin Malachino could face 20 years in prison if convicted on the felony charge.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office says the threats included a partial list of people the teen was looking to kill and one young woman he allegedly threatened to sexually assault.
Investigators said Malachino, 17, sent out the threats via text.
They said those threats were specifically aimed at three students including a male and female at Comstock Park High School and another at Kenowa Hills High School.
Those who know him at the school said he is a quirky teen, but they are shocked to hear what he’s accused of.
Fellow students said he is mostly known for his collection of pencils and opening doors for others students.
“From what I knew he was a really nice kid,” said Zachary Sammon, a student at Comstock Park High School. “I was really surprised by what happened to be honest.”
“I didn’t ‘think it would come from him necessarily, said Ashley Milanowski, a student at Comstock Park High School. “Just strange. He would talk about creating his own world. He was just different.”
FOX 17 went by Malachino’s house for comment but family members asked for privacy.
We also spoke to the family of the young woman he’s accused of threatening and they also declined comment on the case at this time.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office says since Malachino is 17-years-old he can be charged as an adult.
He is being held on a $500,000 bond at the Kent County Jail.
If he is released on bond, Malachino is not allowed to have contact with the alleged victims or the school.
