Subjects of Thursday AMBER ALERT could face criminal charges

CLAY COUNTY - Authorities say criminal charges are possible against two children reported missing as part of an AMBER ALERT Thursday.

A joint release from the Clay County Sheriff's Office and Iowa Department of Public Safety said the statewide alert was issued because the juveniles were missing and believed to be in danger.

Law enforcement began investigating after receiving a report that two children did not show up for class at Clay Central Everly Community Schools.

Authorities received permission Thursday afternoon to issue an AMBER ALERT as a result of their disappearance.

The notification was canceled around 3:20 p.m., about an hour after it was issued, when both were found safely in nearby Cherokee County.

Criminal charges are pending upon completion of the investigation, according to the release. Both juveniles are being held for their safety.