Galesburg Man Sentenced to Probation for Threatening Lakeview High School Protesters

A Galesburg man will avoid jail time after posting threatening messages on social media directed at Battle Creek students planning a protest at Lakeview High School in February.

Mark David Hendricks, 57, was sentenced to one year of probation last week after pleading guilty to malicious use of telecommunications, a misdemeanor under Michigan law. The court also ordered him to pay fines and costs related to the case.

The incident began when students at Lakeview High School planned a walkout to protest ICE activities. In online comments, Hendricks called on people to 'come armed' to the school and stated that the protesters 'didn't deserve to live.'

Battle Creek Police arrested Hendricks on February 19, 2026, one day before the scheduled protest. He was originally charged with threatening to commit an act of violence against a school employee or student, which carries more severe penalties.

However, Hendricks later accepted a plea deal to the lesser telecommunications charge. The Michigan Compiled Laws Section 750.540e prohibits malicious use of telecommunications services to terrorize, frighten, intimidate, threaten, harass, or annoy another person. Violations can result in up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,000.

Despite the threats, hundreds of Lakeview students proceeded with their planned walkout on February 20 to voice their concerns about immigration enforcement.

The case highlights ongoing tensions in Southwest Michigan communities regarding student activism and online safety. Local law enforcement acted quickly to address the threats, demonstrating the serious approach taken toward school safety in the Battle Creek area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What was Mark David Hendricks originally charged with?
A: Hendricks was originally charged with threatening to commit an act of violence against a school employee or student, a misdemeanor under Michigan law. He later accepted a plea deal for malicious use of telecommunications.

Q: What sentence did Mark Hendricks receive?
A: Hendricks was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay fines and court costs. He will not serve jail time under the plea agreement.

Q: What law did Mark Hendricks violate?
A: Hendricks pleaded guilty to malicious use of service provided by telecommunications service provider under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 750.540e, which prohibits using telecommunications to threaten, harass, or intimidate others.