SOUTH GLENGARRY – Three teenagers have been charged in relation to a case where another youth was urged to take their own life.
SD&G OPP Const. Serge Duguay told Cornwall Newswatch the online harassment happened over a period of time and was reported sometime between late last year and a couple of days before they started an investigation on March 5.
The local OPP crime unit arrested the three youths on March 10 in the counselling to commit suicide investigation.
Two girls – a 14-year-old from South Glengarry and a 14-year-old from Cornwall – are each charged with counselling to commit suicide and criminal harassment.
The South Glengarry girl faces additional charges of making threats and mischief.
A 16-year-old boy from South Glengarry is facing a charge of mischief.
Their names were not released because their identities are protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
Duguay says the victim, who is alive, and the three accused know each other.
“Youth being youth, eh? Using the online bullying…a way to intimidate or harass someone thinking, I’m free, no one will report this or I won’t ever get caught. That’s the way they think today by using social media,” Duguay told CNW.
“Lots of kids are being harassed online but they don’t report it to either parents, school or a friend. Then is keeps ongoing…and then they just can’t take it anymore. Basically it affects their mental health,” he added.
If you know someone who is struggling with bullying and harassment, SD&G OPP urge you to seek resources. NeedHelpNow.ca provides information for friends and parents and can be a lifeline for youth in need.