Cops flush homecoming prank plans after seizing 650 toilet paper rolls in ‘Operation Clean Sweep’
Plainfield Police Intercept 650 Rolls of Toilet Paper Amid Homecoming Prank Concerns
Plainfield, Illinois – In the days surrounding the homecoming week for Plainfield North High School, the Plainfield Police Department found itself dealing with a large supply of toilet paper and other items that appeared to be part of a coordinated prank targeting neighborhood homes and vehicles.
Police reported that on Monday and Tuesday nights, beginning shortly after 7 p.m., they received a “double‑digit” number of calls for service involving teenagers in the area surrounding the high school. Residents said that homes and cars were being covered in toilet paper, eggs, ketchup, detergent pods, and other odd items. The department described groups of 20 to 25 teens, wearing hoodies and ski masks, arriving in several cars simultaneously and “causing chaos.”
In a subsequent operation the police seized 650 rolls of toilet paper that investigators said were being shipped to nearby residences. “And yes… 650 rolls. We counted,” officers confirmed. The haul was displayed under a banner titled “Operation Clean Sweep.” Police humorously estimated the street value of the rolls at $1,708.66 after two nights of escalating complaints from the community.
The department’s Facebook post made clear that homecoming celebrations were not a free pass for vandalism or property damage. “Homecoming is not a free pass to damage someone else’s property or disrupt their quality of life,” the post read. Police noted that the pranks had not been limited to classmates or friends; some targets were homes of families with young children or residents with no children at all.
“We are seeing property damage and significant cleanup, and residents are understandably frustrated,” the department added. The post also highlighted that the police had been called away from more serious incidents during the same time period. Officers had assisted firefighters at a structure fire, helped Illinois State Police, made a DUI arrest, responded to crashes, dealt with intoxicated individuals, violations of protection orders and a family experiencing a mental health crisis.
A “zero‑tolerance” approach was announced by the department before homecoming week began. Police warned that pranks involving trespassing, property damage or dangerous behavior could result in criminal charges. “‘It was just a prank’ does not erase the consequences,” the post cautioned.
The department stated it was not trying to dampen school spirit, but urged parents to talk to their children before the festivities began. “Have fun. Make memories. BUT DO IT WITH RESPECT,” the department concluded.
No arrests or charges were reported in connection with the intercepted toilet paper or other items. The department did not disclose where the rolls were found, whether any teens were identified, or whether any legal action has been taken against those involved.
