K-9 Finds Alleged Teen Burglars In Ceiling Of Middle School That Was Shut Down In 2024

A K-9 in Colorado found two teenagers hiding inside the ceiling of an old middle school building that was permanently closed in 2024, police said.

The Westminster Police Department said officers responded to the old Moore Middle School on the night of March 5 after a security guard reported two people had broken in. Officers established a perimeter and searched the “massive building” with the help of K-9 Ferro.

Ferro showed interest in the ceiling of a particular classroom, and “sure enough,” officers found the suspects, ages 16 and 18, hiding in the ceiling.

Body-worn camera video shared by the police department shows officers aiming their flashlights toward the ceiling and ordering the suspects, “hands up or you’re gonna get bit.”

Moments after an officers says he can “see his legs right there,” one teen comes crashing through the ceiling down to the floor in a pile of debris. After getting that suspect out of the way, officers direct the second suspect to “crawl down.”

Another officer warned, “do anything stupid you’re gonna get bit.” Moments later, the second suspect jumps down and lands on his feet.

Police said both suspects were taken into custody. Although the 18-year-old is an adult, the suspect’s identity was not released.

“Our K9 teams are an incredibly valuable part of the department,” police said. “The dogs’ training and ability to locate suspects helps officers resolve situations quickly and safely. And just as important are the dedicated handlers who train with and work alongside their K9 partners every day. It takes a strong partnership and a lot of trust. Great teamwork all around.”