Technology has advanced to the point where most people here in Tennessee and around the country have some sort of online presence. Social media, texting and other forms of electronic communication have become a way of life. State and federal laws have had to keep up with these new forms of communication, which has spawned a new segment of law enforcement to deal with cyber crimes such as cyberbullying.
As the name implies, cyberbullying is defined as bullying another person through the use of electronic technology, such as tablets, cell phones, and computers. For example, spreading rumors through email, social media or text would be considered cyberbullying. People have also been known to disseminate embarrassing videos or pictures of someone through these methods as well.
Due to the 24/7 nature of the internet, cyberbullying can occur at any time. The parties do not have to be in the same room or even the same city in order for it to occur. Many resources on the subject focus on children and teenagers, but anyone can be either the victim or the alleged perpetrator.
Cyberbullying can also be difficult to prove since the owner of the electronic device used might not be the one who used it. Tennessee prosecutors will have to provide the court with evidence that the party accused of cyberbullying is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Anyone accused of this type of crime should seek the advice and assistance of a criminal defense attorney right away. As is the case with any other crime, the accused individual has the right to review all of the alleged evidence and to confront any supposed witnesses in court.
Source: stopbullying.gov, "What is Cyberbullying", Accessed on Aug. 26, 2016