Culp Enters Negotiated Guilty Plea in Smigielski Case

Christopher Culp, who was accused of making a threatening phone call against former Grayslake District 46 board member Shannon Smigielski, entered a negotiated guilty plea Tuesday.

Court documents show that Culp pleaded guilty on a disorderly conduct charge, a Class C misdemeanor.

He was placed under court supervision for 18 months and he must perform 25 hours of public service, the Daily Herald reported. Culp must also avoid any contact with Smigielski and her family.

"The order entered by the judge will protect me and my family from any harassment by Mr. Culp, and I am hopeful that this will put an end to this very sad situation," said Smigielski. "I am most thankful to the Lake County State's Attorney's Office and their victim assistance coordinators who have assisted me throughout this process, as well as the support I have received from the school district in agreeing to pay my attorney fees for representation in this matter."

Smigielski added that she is "confident that my family and I can put this incident behind us and move forward."

Culp, 43, of 691 S. Rose Hall Lane, Round Lake, was charged with disorderly conduct. Smigielski said Culp made a threatening phone call to her home Jan. 19, during the District 46 teachers' strike.

Smigielski resigned from the school board March 3.