Five children break into Maine school causing up to $30,000 in damages: police

Police believe they have identified the five juveniles responsible for breaking into a Maine school, damaging a medical classroom, and trashing bathrooms and hallways.

The destruction occurred Saturday night at Longley School in Lewiston, according to Lewiston Public Schools Superintendent Jake Langlais.

Police say a group of cousins, ages 8 to 12, caused up to $30,000 in damages. According to the incident confirmed by Langlais, five juveniles broke into the school at 145 Birch St., causing loss of some important training equipment, including medical program mannequins.

“All the hours they put into that work and the materials they acquired, all damaged,” Langlais told WGME.

On Sunday, staff cleaned the building after police reported a break-in through a back window. Classes resumed the next day.

The superintendent told WGME that a disciplinary hearing will be held for the students, who all attend school in the district.

"Students going before the school committee could be sent back to school, they could be long-term suspended, or they could be expelled," Langlais shared.

Police are also referring the case to the district attorney for potential criminal charges.

In June 2022, Longley School experienced another unfortunate incident of vandalism, resulting in damages exceeding $100,000.

Four local children were charged with vandalizing Governor James B. Longley School. They spray-painted floors, walls and equipment, and destroyed furniture, computers and plants.

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