ALTON, Ill.—Twenty-six Alton High School students have been charged in connection with an August fight at school. 

Two of the students have been charged as adults and the rest are facing charges as juveniles. 

The Madison County State’s Attorney says the charged come as the result of an investigation led by the Madison County Sheriff’s Department. 

The charges range from disorderly conduct to mob action and aggravated battery of a peace officer. The ages of those charged range from 14 to 18. There were 15 females and 11 males involved, according to authorities. 

The fights prompted the school to cancel class one day and hold a day of virtual learning the next. It also forced restrictions at a football game.

State’s attorney Thomas Haine said contrary to reports on social media and websites, the investigation found no weapons used in the commission of these offenses.

“It is a tragedy whenever the criminal justice system becomes the appropriate tool to punish students for actions that occur in school. But where necessary, we will use all tools the law offers to ensure the safety of our schools. Our schools must be protected from crime and violence. Period.”

Haine commended police and school officials for their response. He also thanked community leaders who are working to bring the community together “in the wake of this difficult episode.”

One of the students charged as an adult faces aggravated batter of a school employee which carries a sentence ranging from probation to five years in prison. 

The other students charged with aggravated battery and mob action. Mob action carries a sentence ranging from probation to three years in prison.

“This was not a cookie-cutter approach. This was a meticulous review that took into account the actions and the level of involvement of each individual,” Haine said.

The 24 juveniles face what is known as a delinquency petition. You can learn more about how they are adjudicated in Illinois here.