Chief’s Corner
By Chief Steven J. Wojnar Dudley Police Department In addition to October being the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October is also designated as National Bullying Prevention month. This activity can impact children and adults. I was asked to bring this to the attention of the readers and provide some information on potential law violations that can apply in these instances. Bullying is talked about more in today’s world than in years past. It still exists in many forms and it can have a negative impact on people’s lives. In years past, a student may be the subject of bullying in school. Today, for anyone who is the subject of this activity, the exposure never ends. Thanks to the internet and social media, this can occur 24 hours per day, seven days a week. People can also feel empowered by the relative anonymity of the computer or phone. They will often find themselves saying things in this forum they would never say to someone’s face. Bullying involves more than simply having opposing views or engaging in an argument. It will usually consist of repeated attempts to threaten, assault, or intimidate people. If this activity occurs and it is not addressed, it can have serious consequences. People must recognize when someone they know is the subject of bullying and take proactive measures to address it. A great deal of information and helpful tips can be found at https://www.stopbullying.gov. Several crimes can apply in these instances and they are always viewed on a case by case basis. Potential criminal charges can include threats, assault, assault and battery, stalking, criminal harassment, and numerous other offenses. In some cases, where a person may be the target of this activity motivated by bigotry and bias, the charge of a “hate crime” may apply. Since so many potential criminal violations are involved and serious consequences can be imposed, it is important to investigate these claims and proceed in the proper direction. |
The main objective is to be aware of these activities and take steps to stop or prevent it. Try to intervene if possible or report these incidents to any proper authority, if warranted. Above all, we need to promote kindness and tolerance and address issues early on in order to limit their negative effects.
Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St., Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen |
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