COLUMBIA --- When Rock Hill school officials tell commencement crowds to hold their applause until the end, they mean it -- police arrested seven people after they were accused of loud cheering during the ceremonies.

Six people at Fort Mill High School's graduation were charged Saturday and a seventh at the graduation for York Comprehensive High School was charged Friday with disorderly conduct, authorities said.

Police said the seven yelled after students' names were called.

Rock Hill police began patrolling commencements several years ago at the request of school districts who complained of increasing disruption.

All the cases, except for one that includes a resisting arrest charge, will be handled in city court and are punishable by a maximum of 30 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

-- Associated Press