Defendant in “Predator Sting” Case Gets Probation

The defendant arrested after an amateur “predator sting” has been sentenced to 24 months of probation.
Donald D. Boomgaarn Jr., age 25, of Fairbury, appeared for sentencing in Jefferson County District Court on Thursday, April 2, 2026. David J.A. Bargen was the presiding judge.

Boomgaarn was originally charged with attempted child enticement, a class 2 felony punishable by one to 50 years in prison. A plea deal reduced the charge to attempt of a class 4 felony, which is a class 1 misdemeanor.

Judge Bargen told the defendant he originally intended to give him jail time but decided probation that would provide some “behavior modification” would be more beneficial.
Boomgaarn will also have to register as a sex offender for 15 years.

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