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Pepper Pranksters Admit to Attempted Heist at Chili's Restaurant

(CBS/AP)
BENNINGTON, Vt. (CBS/AP) What were they drinking?

A pepper prank is burning some students after four people have pleaded guilty to trying to steal a giant pepper off a Chili's restaurant in Bennington, Vt.

They are now taking the heat for it, and have to write five-page essays on how they've wasted taxpayers' money.

The Bennington Banner is reporting that the four— two college students, a recent graduate and one who is "between work and school"; pleaded guilty Tuesday to attempted larceny and unlawful mischief. Felony charges were dropped.

Police say the group ran 470 feet of extension cord across a four-lane road and through a Home Depot parking lot to power an electric drill used to detach the logo sign Sept. 6. But an alarm went off, thwarting their plans.

The group was given two-year suspended sentences, probation and must complete 200 hours of community service, in addition to writing the essays.

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