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Schools Taking Proactive Approach to Cell Phone Problems

Schools Taking Proactive Approach to Cell Phone Problems - Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at 6:08PM EST

Reported by: Kyla Campbell
Wednesday, Nov 12, 2008 @ 06:08pm EST

TUNKHANNOCK, WYOMING COUNTY -- It was just two weeks ago when Tunkhannock Area School District Superintendent Michael Healey discovered nude pictures of a female student were circulating on cell phones. Now, at least four students could face suspension from school and legal charges.

Healey says while the district allows cell phones in school, they must be turned off and in lockers at all times, and used only after classes are dismissed. But when one student used a cell phone in class last month, the district, by law, was able to see why it was being used. That's how they discovered the nude picture.

The district is not sharing many details -- such as how many pictures were sent and of how many girls -- due to the sensitivity of the investigation.

In light of this incident, the Abington Heights High School held an assembly with local law enforcement and the district attorney's office, in order to explain to the students that this type of behavior is illegal.

Lackawanna County Deputy Districty Attorney Frank Castellano says anyone who takes the picture manufactures it, anyone who has it on their cell phone is in possession of it, and anyone who forwards it is distributing it -- "it" being child pornography.

Castellano says even if all students are under the age of 18, it's still a second degree felony of sexual abuse of children, and it's punishable the same as if adults were doing it.

He says it could keep students from getting into college or getting financial aid. He says someone found guilty of sexual abuse of children doesn't necessarily get their record expunged when they turn 18, which could hurt their chances in future careers.

School and law enforcement officials are encouraging parents to consider limiting the services on their children's cell phones. If the parents are in charge of the phone bill, they can block text messaging, the ability to send or receive pictures, and access to the internet.
 


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