Suspects charged in prank that released 72,000 ladybugs in high school



CHAPTICO, Md. (AP) — Police have charged seven suspects in a senior prank that released 72,000 ladybugs in a public high school.

The St. Mary's County's Sheriff's Office says in a news release that early May 20, five people forced open a door at Chopticon High School in Morganza, Maryland.

Deputies say the pranksters, who were wearing masks and hoodies, released a swarm of ladybugs throughout the school while two others waited in a car.

One suspect ordered the ladybugs online, deputies say.



Four juveniles have been charged with burglary, property destruction and disruption of school activities. They were released to their parents. Deputies say three adults will be charged by criminal summons.