Bullies under spec

WITH the technology available to teenagers these days it is no surprise bullying can take a number of new forms not an issue for previous generations.

Police are warning students that "cyber bullying" is a crime and those that harass others with threatening or inappropriate text messages or emails face criminal charges.

Regardless of your age or intentions you can be prosecuted for harassment.

Senior Constable Kerryn Mura, School Liaison Police, said most teenagers do the right thing, this warning only applies to a select few.

"When bullying amounts to harassment then it is a crime," Sen. Con. Mura told students.

She said students often try to deal with these situations themselves, often escalating the problem, and encouraged any student who is being bullies, either through conventional methods of through cyber bullying, to report it to police.

"The police should be the first port of call because we can help, we can trace where the text message or email came from."

She said it is important teenagers realise their mobile phones and internet access are a privilege and not to abuse them.

She also encouraged students not to get caught up in the rumour mill and think before acting saying often situations where offensive messages are sent the intentions of one party have been misconstrued causing the other party to take offence and retaliate.

While it may seem like harmless schoolyard behaviour to some the penalties for bullying in any capacity send a strong message.

"If you are charged with any offence it restricts you in terms of university or TAFE entrance, gaining employment and overseas travel," Sen. Con Mura said.

"Next time stop and think whether it is worth it."

With Term 2 of the school year kicking off soon Sen. Con. Mura took the time to remind students of the necessity of wearing a helmet when riding your bike on the road.

Those caught without one are risking their life, the lives of others and stand to foot a $51 fine.