Seven juveniles were arrested by the Peoria Police Department after a fight broke out Saturday during a Peoria Public Schools graduation ceremony at the Civic Center.
According to police, three 16-year-old males, two 15-year-old males, a 13-year-old female and a 17-year-old female were all arrested on various charges of resisting/obstructing police, aggravated battery and mob action.
All of the juveniles, except for two, were released to a guardian following their arrests. Police said one of the 15-year-old males and one of the 16-year-old males were sent to the Juvenile Detention Center.
Police said the fight occurred shortly after 5 p.m.
In a statement released by Peoria Public Schools, the district clarified the fight occurred in the Civic Center’s concessions hallway following the ceremony for Richwoods High School. A district spokesperson said 20 Peoria police officers, 16 school resource officers and 14 Civic Center security officers assisted in stopping the fight.
“We’re incredibly thankful for the professionalism of the various security teams,” Superintendent Dr. Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat said in the statement. “I am thankful to everyone who made this day special. The positive feedback from families about our new venue, especially the Jumbotron view, unlimited seating, and easy parking, confirms it was a joyful and memorable experience.”
District representatives said Peoria Public Schools remains committed to “providing safe, inclusive, and celebratory experiences for all students and families.”
