Ladybugs Released In School As Senior Prank

CHAPTICO, Md. (AP) -- A senior prank in which 72,000 ladybugs were released in a public high school has several youths and adults facing criminal charges.

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

Deputies say the suspects, who were wearing masks and hoodies, released about 72,000 ladybugs throughout the school. Police say two others waited in a car.

Investigators say four male juveniles and three men were identified as suspects. One suspect ordered the ladybugs from the internet, deputies say.

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