RANTOUL — Four Lincoln’s Challenge Academy cadets are facing charges in the theft of a vehicle in Rantoul after being arrested more than 1,200 miles away.

Police Chief Tony Brown said Albuquerque, N.M., police arrested the youths on charges of receiving or transferring stolen vehicles or motor vehicles, conspiracy to commit third- or fourth-degree felony and larceny theft of a firearm (less than $2,500).

On Feb. 16, staff members from the academy reported that four cadets had run from the building.

Brown said they allegedly stole a vehicle from Meadows Court in Rantoul that also had a gun in it.

Police identified the cadets as a 16-year-old male from Kankakee, a 17-year-old male from Riverside, a 16-year-old male from Earlville and a 15-year-old male from Jacksonville.

All four were located and taken into custody on Feb. 17 in Albuquerque.

Lt. Col. Brad Leighton, a spokesman for the Illinois National Guard, which operates the academy, said all four cadets were expelled.

“It’s contrary to our conditions to have anybody charged with a felony” enrolled, Leighton said.

“I don’t think the actions of a few individuals should reflect on the rest of the cadets who are obviously there for a reason,” he said, adding those enrolled “are trying to get a fresh start and remain committed to the program, learning life skills and investing in their future.”