A University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign student is facing multiple charges after being accused of using a piece of rope to fashion a noose, which was later found in a dorm elevator.
Andrew Smith, 19, was arrested at around 9:30 p.m. Monday night after being questioned by authorities. Smith is facing a felony hate crime charge, as well as a misdemeanor charge of disorderly conduct.
Champaign County Assistant State’s Attorney Kristin Alferink noted during an arraignment on Tuesday that Smith had reportedly found rope in an elevator in Allen Hall over the weekend, before fashioning it into a noose.
At around 1 a.m. on Sunday, staff at the residence hall found the noose hanging inside of an elevator in the building. A woman, who identified herself as Smith’s friend, reported Smith to the authorities, according to Alferink.
Smith pleaded not guilty on Tuesday and requested a trial by jury. The 19-year-old was later released on $5,000 bond.
, University spokesperson Robin Kaler told The Gazette in Champaign that Smith “is not enrolled at the university at this time.”
Smith is due back in court on Oct. 22.
