Full Breakdown
Detroit City FC Staffer Charged with Terroristic Threats in Illinois
9/12/2025, 1:11:05 AM
Overview of the Incident
Jarrett Maki, the sports information director for Detroit City Football Club (DCFC), has been charged with 11 counts of making terrorist threats against several businesses in Madison County, Illinois. Maki, 25, and his accomplice, Austin Blair, also 25, allegedly made threats to fast-food restaurants including Taco Bell, McDonald's, Sonic, and Domino's between July 28 and August 27, 2025. Following the allegations, Maki was suspended and subsequently terminated from his position at DCFC.
Details of the Allegations
The investigation began in July after businesses in East Alton, Illinois, received threatening phone calls. Maki and Blair are accused of making multiple threats, including statements such as "I see a dude with a big gun walking toward your store" directed at Taco Bell employees and warnings of an active shooter at a McDonald's. The threats reportedly caused several businesses to close early due to safety concerns. Maki was arrested on September 6 at the World-Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois, while attending a NASCAR event, and remains in custody at the Madison County Jail.
Timeline of Events
- July 28, 2025: Maki and Blair allegedly begin making threats to various businesses.
- September 3, 2025: Austin Blair is arrested at his home in East Alton.
- September 6, 2025: Jarrett Maki is arrested at the World-Wide Technology Raceway.
- September 10, 2025: Maki is suspended from DCFC.
- September 11, 2025: Maki is terminated from his position at DCFC.
- October 3, 2025: Maki's preliminary examination is scheduled.
Official Statements & Responses
DCFC co-owner Alex Wright stated, "While it is important to note that the issuance of charges is not proof of guilt, our priority is the well-being of our club, staff, supporters, and participants." The club emphasized that they were unaware of the situation until it became public and are monitoring the legal proceedings closely.
Criticism & Opposition
The incident has drawn criticism from fans and supporters of DCFC. The Northern Guard Supporters group expressed outrage over the club's handling of the situation, indicating a potential protest against the club's treatment of staff and recent executive departures.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While both Maki and Blair face identical charges, the specifics of their involvement and the extent of their collaboration remain unclear. Additionally, details regarding Maki's employment status during the period of the alleged threats have not been fully disclosed, raising questions about the club's oversight.
Verbatim Quotes
- “DCFC was made aware yesterday that employee Jarrett Maki was arrested and charged in another state with making terrorist threats,” — Alex Wright, Co-owner, Detroit City FC
- “We have terminated Mr. Maki effective today. While it is important to note that the issuance of charges is not proof of guilt, our priority is the well-being of our club, staff, supporters, and participants.” — Alex Wright, Co-owner, Detroit City FC
- “I see a big dude with a big gun walking toward your store.” — Alleged threat made by Jarrett Maki to Taco Bell employees.
The legal proceedings against Maki and Blair are ongoing, with their next court appearances scheduled for October 3, 2025.
