Cyberbullying is incredibly widespread, affecting approximately 59% of teens in the U.S. Some kids might feel that their online activities don’t have real consequences, but they actually result in disciplinary action at school and even serious legal problems. In extreme cases, children who engage in cyberbullying can be arrested and detained until their parents can post bail. If your kids are accused of online bullying, understanding the legal consequences is key to achieving the best possible outcome.

What Is Cyberbullying?

Any online harassment can be considered cyberbullying, including calling names or spreading rumors about another person. Making threats of physical bodily harm, stalking, and sexist or racist insults can also be considered bullying.

Laws and school rules about cyberbullying describe that any threatening or intimidating communication over email, text, phone calls, or social media platforms are considered cyberbullying. 

When Is Cyberbullying a Crime?

Name-calling and other minor instances of bullying may be dealt with by your child’s school, even if the activity took place off school grounds. However, extended campaigns of racist, homophobic, or sexist comments, death threats, and severe harassment may actually result in criminal charges.

In Connecticut, a defendant with no criminal record may be charged with a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by fines and three months in a detention facility.

What Happens If Your Child Faces Criminal Charges?

Juvenile courts are separate from the criminal justice system, so children will probably not receive a lengthy jail sentence. However, your child may be required to attend counseling and may be sent to a juvenile facility. After their arrest, they’ll likely be released to your custody, but in severe cases, you may have to post bail to secure their freedom. The juvenile facilitates in Connecticut including juvenile courts are open during COVID-19.

Posting bail for a child facing cyberbullying charges can be stressful and overwhelming, but our agents at 3-D Bail Bonds are here to help. With offices throughout Connecticut, we proudly help families across the state navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system. Visit our website now to find your nearest office. Call (860) 247-2245 to speak to a bail bond agent in Hartford. For help posting bail in New Britain, call (860) 229-2525, or dial (203) 562-6666 to reach our New Haven area service.