Venerable and up-and-coming Fry & Elder attorney Preston Bennett views cyberbullying as the digital epidemic facing many of today’s youth, particularly those in Oklahoma schools.
“It is a problem that parents, educators, and government officials really need to be aware of,” Preston Bennett says. “Unlike typical bullying that many may have grown up with observing or even experiencing, cyberbullying can be vicious in that it can operate on a 24/7 cycle through digital communication such as text messaging and social media platforms.”
What is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is a form of harassment that occurs online, typically through social media, text messages, emails, or other digital platforms. As Bennett highlighted, unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying has the potential to reach a broader audience and can happen 24/7, leaving victims feeling helpless and trapped.
The Prevalence of Cyberbullying in Oklahoma?
Just as it has become in many other states across the United States, cyberbullying is a pressing issue in Oklahoma. In fact, according to one Broadband Search study, 73 percent of students felt they had been victims of cyberbullying at some point in their lifetime.
There are many factors that have led to a rise in cyberbullying in Oklahoma and across and the nation. These include:
- Digital Connectivity: The high rate of internet and smartphone usage in the state has made it easier for cyberbullies to target their victims.
- Youth population: Oklahoma has a significant youth population, and cyberbullying is often more prevalent among adolescents and teenagers.
- Social Media: Popular social media platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter provide optimal avenues for cyberbullying to occur.
What are the Consequences of Cyberbullying in Oklahoma?
Not surprisingly, cyberbullying can have severe consequences for victims. These include but are not limited to mental health issues, academic decline, isolation and withdraw, physical health issues, and legal repercussions.
Why Contact an Experienced Oklahoma Cyberbullying Attorney?
Presently, there are no Oklahoma anti-bullying laws that cover off-campus conduct. This makes it all the more imperative to seek out a personal consultation with an experienced Oklahoma cyberbullying attorney to ensure that the best interest of the child is being met.
Cyberbullying and cyberstalking can incur serious fines and substantial incarceration time for a guilty defendant. If you’ve been arrested for or charged with a related crime, contact a local criminal attorney right away. A qualified lawyer can give you sound legal advice and recommend the best course of action for the unique circumstances of your case.
Similarly, you may be able to recover money damages if you’ve been a victim of these types of offenses. A lawyer can advise you about the potential civil causes of action that might apply to your case.
Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference?
Our criminal defense attorneys at Fry & Elder have successfully fought for our clients for decades. The firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List every year since 2014. Preparation and the desire to give our clients the best representation possible are the motivating factors that enable us to be better informed and prepared than other attorneys. Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation.