Treatment center runaways found in Pine Island

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Two juveniles who escaped from a psychiatric treatment center in Austin, Minn., turned up Saturday in Pine Island.

The teens, ages 17 and 16, were reported rifling through vehicles behind the Pine Island fire hall at about 12:51 a.m., according to the Goodhue County Sheriff's Office.

An officer arrived at the scene and saw two young males inside a vehicle. The 16-year-old took off running when the officer approached him, according to authorities.

Officers eventually caught up with the younger boy and learned both teens were runaways from the Gerard Academy, a treatment center for males and females ages six to 19 who have emotional, behavioral or psychiatric issues.

It is believed the juveniles stole a vehicle from Austin and drove to Pine Island. They were returned to the academy.

Formal charges are pending with the Goodhue County Attorney's Office.

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