Malibu High School Vandalized in Senior Prank Gone Too Far: Superintendent
MALIBU, Calif. — A pre‑graduation “senior prank” at Malibu High School escalated into a full‑scale vandalism incident this week, inflicting tens of thousands of dollars in damage and prompting condemnation from school officials and law enforcement.
According to the Santa Monica‑Malibu Unified School District, the destruction occurred overnight from 11 p.m. on June 2 to 2 a.m. on June 3, when approximately 40–50 current seniors and recent alumni stormed the campus, causing widespread chaos
Rampage Across Campus
- Locks super‑glued shut on 20 classroom doors, preventing access for a full school day
- A golf cart was overturned and even pushed down a flight of stairs, sustaining serious damage.
- Numerous clocks ripped from walls, tables and chairs broken, graffiti—including explicit messages and images—spray‑painted on buildings and bathrooms
- Toilet paper, flour, and eggs strewn across hallways in classic—but destructive—prank style.
“Completely Unacceptable,” Says Superintendent
Superintendent Dr. Antonio Shelton condemned the episode as a “senior prank that got extremely out of hand,” underlining that the estimated cost of repairs “is tens of thousands of dollars. He emphasized that this pattern of senior vandalism—a tradition stretching back over 15 years—is not a rite of passage, but a punishable crime that will carry serious consequences.
“This behavior is completely unacceptable and negatively impacts the entire Malibu community,” Shelton stated. “All individuals found to be involved will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law … This is not a rite of passage. It is a crime that has consequences to all involved. It will not be tolerated.”
Law Enforcement Investigates
The Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station is working closely with school officials to identify everyone involved. Sgt. William Velek confirmed that anyone aged 18 or older may face adult charges, while minors could be processed through juvenile court.
Esmi Careaga, communications director for the district, stressed that while some senior pranks have been harmless fun in past years, this one was a serious crime. “Traditions should not include a crime or a prank that went too far,” she said.
School Community Reacts
Several students voiced their dismay at the excessive nature of the prank:
“It’s just disrespectful and entitled and privileged,” said Irina Columbeanu.
“A prank is supposed to be funny, and this was not funny at all—it was a crime,” added Chloe Kouzouyan.
Parents also weighed in, encouraging reflection: “Maybe this is their way of creating attention—not great attention,” one parent observed
Graduation Uncertain
Malibu High’s graduation ceremony, scheduled for June 11, may be at risk if repairs aren’t completed in time. Cameos of damage have prompted officials to consider relocating or postponing in-person festivities
What Happens Next?
- Investigations continue by school and sheriff’s teams, with tips encouraged via the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station tip line.
- Prosecutions loom: participants may face criminal charges, be required to pay restitution, and lose senior privileges
- Review of traditions: After more than 15 years of minor senior pranks, the district is taking a hard look at implementing stricter campus policies and pre‑graduation guidelines
Final Take
What was likely intended as harmless fun spiraled into a destructive ordeal, tarnishing the school’s reputation and potentially derailing graduation plans. Now, those involved may face lasting legal and financial consequences—highlighting that some traditions should stay in the past.
