A former St. Louis police officer is sentenced to probation for shooting at trick-or-treating event

CLAYTON, Mo. (AP) -- A former St. Louis County police officer, Matthew McCulloch, was sentenced to five years of probation for his actions during a trick-or-treating event last October, where he fired a gun into the air and threatened attendees. McCulloch, 40, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including endangering the welfare of a child and making a terroristic threat, although several other charges were dismissed as part of his plea.

The incident occurred at a school-sponsored event in Kirkwood, where hundreds were present. While off-duty and attending with family, McCulloch reportedly began harassing attendees, telling them, "You are all going to die." When confronted by another man, he revealed his handgun and proceeded to discharge the weapon into the air about a dozen times, causing panic among the trick-or-treaters.

Fortunately, no one sustained physical injuries during the incident; however, many participants were left traumatized. After police intervened, several individuals managed to subdue McCulloch and disarm him before further harm could occur.

St. Louis County prosecuting attorney Melissa Price Smith expressed gratitude that no one was physically harmed and acknowledged the emotional impact on the victims, particularly the children, who were affected by McCulloch's reckless behavior. The court's decision was seen as a necessary measure to provide some closure for those involved.

Following the event, police confirmed that McCulloch was no longer employed by the department, but further details about his departure were not disclosed.