SAINT-HYACINTHE, Que. - Two Quebec teens charged with conspiracy to commit murder and sexual assault in an alleged plot against some of their classmates will remain behind bars.

In rejecting their bid for release today, a judge cited public safety and the need to preserve the public's faith in the judicial system.

The two boys were arrested in September and face 23 charges in all.

Court documents state there were six alleged victims in the plot.

Parents of the accused and those of some of the classmates allegedly targeted were in the courtroom in St-Hyacinthe this afternoon.

The case is expected to resume next week.