At approximately 7:15 p.m. on Wednesday, March 29, the Dobbs Ferry Police Department received a 911 emergency call reporting a riot in progress at the Lanza Activity Center following a basketball game between students at the Children’s Village and the Pleasantville Cottage School.
According to police, upon arrival, officers found approximately 50 people engaged in riotous behavior, causing “extensive” property damage after the game. It took law enforcement officials from Ardsley, Irvington, Hastings and members of the Greenburgh Drug and Alcohol Task Force to disperse the group.
Two players reportedly got into a fight at the end of the game, which escalated when spectators intervened and the brawl continued outside of the gym. No injuries were reported.
Three 16-year-old residents of the Children’s Village were arrested and charged with a felony count of criminal mischief, as well as rioting, and obstructing governmental administration, both misdemeanors. They were also charged with disorderly conduct, a violation. Each was arraigned on Thursday morning in Dobbs Ferry Justice Court and have been remanded to the Westchester County Jail in lieu of $2,000 bail.
Each of the defendants are due back in court on Friday, April 6. Police said that additional arrests are anticipated as the investigation into the incident continues. Keep following Daily Voice for updates as they become available.
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