Principal Chases Streaker in Gorilla Mask

UNION SPRINGS, N.Y. (AP) - A 17-year-old student was arrested for streaking through his high school in a gorilla mask after being chased down the street by the school principal.

Union Springs High School Principal Kimberle Ward - who said she runs three to five miles daily - didn't catch the fleeing student, but she was able to help police arrest the teen after watching a hallway surveillance camera video and interviewing several students.

Some might call it monkey business, but Union Springs school officials didn't find the stunt amusing.

``There's no way anyone in the district would consider this a prank,'' District Superintendent Linda Rice said Wednesday. ``We're here to teach children, and we do have high standards.''

The student, whose name was withheld by police and school officials, was charged with exposure, a violation punishable by up to 15 days in jail and a $250 fine. The teen also faces disciplinary action at the school. Rice said anyone who significantly violates the student code of conduct faces up to five days suspension and possibly more severe punishment if the case goes to a hearing before her.

The student told state police he had been dared by friends to streak through the school on Monday and had done so as a prank, said Sgt. Nancy Mazur.

Union Springs is located in Cayuga County about 40 miles southwest of Syracuse.

Let's see. His face was covered, but she was able to identify him.

Hmmm, sounds like SOMEONE has been staying after school for "extracurricular activities".