The New Lenox home of John Prevost, a brother of Pope Leo XIV, was recently targeted by a bomb threat. Thankfully, the threat was found to be unfounded.
Around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, New Lenox police received the call. The police quickly set up a perimeter, evacuating nearby homes to ensure everyone’s safety. They thoroughly searched the residence and surrounding area with specialized units and K9s trained in detecting explosives. They confirmed that there were no dangerous devices or hazards present. After the all-clear was given, evacuated residents were allowed to return home without any injuries reported.
Police Chief Micah D. Nuesse stated that the investigation into the source of the threat is ongoing. He emphasized the seriousness of making false reports like this one, which could lead to criminal charges.
This incident followed a heated exchange between Pope Leo and former President Donald Trump. The conflict began after the Pope criticized Trump’s policies regarding the war in Iran. In response, Trump called the Pope “weak on crime” and said he was “terrible for Foreign Policy.”
While it remains uncertain if the bomb threat is linked to this feud, the timing is certainly noteworthy. As Pope Leo continues an 11-day trip in North Africa honoring St. Augustine, he has spoken about the pain caused by war. He mentioned on Tuesday, “God’s heart is torn apart by wars, violence, injustice, and lies,” highlighting a call for peace.
In recent discussions about public safety, experts have pointed out that false threats can divert valuable resources from real emergencies. According to a 2022 survey by the National Association of State Fire Marshals, 40% of emergency respondents reported being sent to false alarms, highlighting the need for responsible reporting.
While tensions between Pope Leo and Trump continue to simmer, it’s clear that safety and truth should always come first.
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