The seniors of James A. Green High School in Dolgeville, New York, weren't looking to fall back on the same old stuff to mark their graduating year. And as far as the Dolgeville Police and New York Department of Environmental Conservation are concerned, the students sure have carved their own niche.

The investigation began with the discovery of a deer carcass, decaying and maggoty, that had been dumped at the school's front door. Another deer was hanging from a fence. Two freshly killed cats dangled from a marquee, complemented by a dead frog and fish innards. Sidewalks were spray-painted with assorted vulgarities, and a "Do Not Enter" sign was erected on the school lawn. "This is not the same as running your father's underpants up the flagpole," said Dolgeville Police Chief Howard Lanpher.

Nine teens have been arrested so far. All face criminal and DEC charges. The school has also told those involved that they're no longer welcome at grad ceremonies.

» Scott Saxon