Unwanted texts and emails are more than just annoying; they can be a form of harassment or even stalking. As parents, it is vital to understand the potential impact of these actions on both the recipient and the sender, especially when the sender is your teen. The legal consequences can be devastating.
What counts as digital harassment?
The courts examine several factors when determining if messages constitute harassment:
- The number and frequency of communications
- The content and tone of messages
- If the recipient asked the sender to stop
- If the messages caused fear or emotional distress
- If the messages contained threats
Washington law takes electronic harassment seriously. Harassment includes electronic communications that threaten, intimidate or persistently annoy another person. Your teen might not realize that their repeated texts after someone asks them to stop could violate this statute.
Potential legal consequences
The legal system treats juvenile offenders differently than adults, but serious consequences still exist. A teen found guilty of digital harassment may face:
- Probation with strict monitoring of online activities
- Mandatory counseling or education programs
- Community service requirements
- Potential school disciplinary actions
- In severe cases, detention in a juvenile facility
First-time offenders typically receive less severe penalties, especially with proper legal representation. The juvenile justice system aims to rehabilitate rather than punish, but this depends on case specifics and prior history.
Steps to take
If someone accuses your teen of sending harassing texts or emails, you need to act quickly:
- Preserve all communication records.
- Discuss the situation honestly with your teen.
- Limit their online communications.
- Contact an experienced juvenile defense attorney immediately.
- Do not attempt to contact the accuser or their family.
An attorney who specializes in juvenile cases can develop a strategy to protect your child’s future. Remember that early intervention with proper legal guidance often offers the best chance to minimize lasting consequences for your teen.