Matthew John McGrory, the 18-year-old son of Ames High School Principal Mike McGrory, and 4 of his friends were arrested last week for trespassing onto school property and attempting to steal a few tables.
But what began as a harmless prank is being prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, and now the teens could face up to 10 years in prison.
10. Years. In Prison.
How is this possible? The story began when Matthew John McGrory stole his father’s keys to the high school, allowing the group to enter without force. Once inside, they attempted to take large tables out the front door– prompting the night janitor to call the police.
When the police arrived, Matthew McGrory and his friends were arrested and charged with second-degree burglary. The charge is a class C felony, and punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
The other arrested students were Zachary Aaron Burleson, 18, Brendan Orlo Best, 18, Jordan James Bergman, 18, and Adam Daniel Tyler, 18.
Tyler was also charged with fourth and fifth degree criminal mischief because he ran from police, and as both he and the pursuing officer tumbled down an embankment, the officer’s equipment was damaged.
Students at Ames High School have disputed the severity of the charges, circulating a petition and creating shirts that read "Drop the Charges." The boys will be arraigned on June 9th.