Niskayuna police arrested two local students following an alleged robbery of a Niskayuna High School student on school grounds.
The robbery is reported to have occurred prior to classes starting at Niskayuna High School on Wednesday, Nov. 16, in a wooded area adjacent to school’s parking lot located at the Nott Street east entrance. The path of woods located on the school’s campus, between the school and Town Hall, is commonly referred to as “The Foxhole,” according to school officials.
One suspect is a male Niskayuna High School student and the other male suspect attends school in the City of Schenectady, according to police reports. Due to the age of the suspects and victim, police are withholding the identities of everyone involved.
The two male suspects allegedly approached the victim in the wooded area and robbed the student at knifepoint, stealing his prescription medication, according to police.
The victim informed high school administrators of the incident the same morning and the school contacted police. According to school officials, nobody was harmed during the incident.
The two male student suspects were arrested on Nov. 16 and charged with robbery in the first degree, a Class B felony, and grand larceny in the fourth degree, a Class E felony.
Both suspects were arraigned in Niskayuna Town Justice Court the same day. After having bail set, both suspects were remanded to a secure juvenile facility and directed to reappear in Niskayuna Town Court on a future date, according to police.
Niskayuna High School Principal John Rickert sent home a letter to parents on Thursday, Nov. 17, informing them of the alleged robbery and actions taken by police and the school.
“In the course of investigating these reports, the administration determined that two students were in violation of the school’s policy on drugs and alcohol and another student was found in possession of a knife,” said Rickert in his letter. “We immediately called the Niskayuna Police Department, which began its own investigation into the matter.”
Rickert said specifics of the case couldn’t be provided because the incident is a student disciplinary matter. Under the district’s Code of Conduct, possession of a weapon on school property results in a suspension in addition to criminal charges. The length of suspension is determined through a hearing process conducted by the superintendent.
“There is nothing more important than the safety of our students and staff,” Rickert said in his letter.
Coincidently, on the night of Thursday, Nov. 17, the school was holding a meeting with parents and community partners focusing on the issues of drugs, alcohol, cyberbullying and Internet safety.
“This situation demonstrates the need for our continuing focus on safety issues in partnership with the police, parents and community members and agencies,” said Rickert. “This conversation will lead to a sustained effort aimed at both prevention and vigilance in these areas.”
School officials also stressed there is no indication the recent incident is related to the video threats against students at the school.
Two videos on YouTube allegedly threatening students were reported to police. The videos have since been removed from the website. Superintendent Susan Salvaggio also previously said the FBI is assisting in that ongoing investigation.
