Crime & Safety

Students Face Disciplinary Action After Vandalizing South River High School: Police

All students involved in the incident have been identified, police said.

SOUTH RIVER, NJ — A group of high school students is facing charges after they were caught trespassing on school property and damaging facilities at South River High School last week, police said.

The South River Police Department responded to reports of unauthorized entry and property damage at the high school on Thursday. According to police, the incident occurred outside of regular school hours when a large group of students gained access to the premises and deliberately defaced school property.

The high school was closed on Thursday as police investigated the matter.

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The case is being treated as criminal trespassing and vandalism. Police have identified all students involved in the incident, who are now facing disciplinary action through school authorities in addition to potential legal consequences.

“Criminal trespassing and vandalism are serious offenses that threaten the safety and integrity of not only our schools, but our community as well.” Police Chief Mark E. Tinitigan said. “We take these incidents very seriously and will continue to work closely with schools to promote a safe environment for students, staff, and residents.”

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Law enforcement officials are coordinating with both school administrators and the families of the involved students to ensure appropriate accountability measures are implemented. The police department is working in partnership with the South River School Administration and Board of Education to address the incident and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Officials are also encouraging parents to discuss these consequences with their children and reminding the community to report any suspicious activity around school grounds.

Anyone with information regarding the incident may contact Detective Sergeant Kenneth Nale of the South River Police Department at 732-238-1000 ext 123.

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