Terry Dean Miller, 78, of Griffith, is accused of hosting an underage drinking party at his home in the 500 block of North Wheeler Street.

According to the probable cause affidavit, Griffith police responded to the residence shortly before midnight on May 9 after receiving reports of an underage drinking party. Officers made contact with Miller at the front door and advised him the party needed to be shut down.

Police said numerous juveniles exited the residence, and earlier in the evening officers had already arrested a 15-year-old, a 16-year-old, and an 18-year-old for minor consumption in connection with the same party.

Officers asked Miller, who is a convicted sex offender, if he thought it was wise to hold a party filled with juveniles. According to court documents, Miller told officers he did not know the juveniles would be “so young.” The Illinois State registry states Miller was charged with aggravated sexual assault of a 4 year old when he was 67. He is required to be registered for life.

Charges Filed July 10, 2026:

Level 6 Felony: Maintaining a Common Nuisance – Alcohol

Class A Misdemeanor: Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor (2 counts)

He is not in custody yet and a records check through mycase doesn’t pull up his previous charge mentioned by officers so I assume it’s out of state.