Q: Can a 13 year-old be charged for telling another 13 year-old to kill themselves if it leads to an attempt or planning?
My niece was humiliated at her school’s lunch, given a list of people who dislike her, and was told to kill herself. She then had a breakdown immediately following and the school had to send her to the hospital where she was referred to a child’s psychiatric unit in Tulsa, OK. I was told she had two plans of suicide. I only ask because my family will be talking with the school and hopefully the girl’s parents, and I want to know what is the legal and usual process for situations like this.
A:
There have been cases of juveniles prosecuted for bullying a person to death. The schools will do something in their control to discipline these children, but there's a good chance they won't contact the police or Child Services in an attempt to minimize the exposure. If they don't, I would suggest that you inform them, and see what else can be done.
I am glad that your niece is okay, and getting the help she needs.
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