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WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS BY DEPUTY T.M. PITMAN OF ST. HELIER
ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON TUESDAY 4th DECEMBER 2012
Question
Given that cyber-bullying and internet 'trolling' as it is commonly known has actually led to the deaths of vulnerable people/children and has resulted in prosecutions in both the UK and US and that the Minister has previously stated that the States of Jersey Police has both resourcing and expertise to match that of the UK, how seriously is this issue taken in Jersey?
Have there been a number of complaints to the Police from different victims relating to one particular individual making threats and, if so, how is such cyber-bulling being dealt with currently?
Answer
As with any crime, so called cyber-crime' in its various guises, of which bullying' could be considered to be one element, is treated seriously and investigated by the Police. In 2011 the States of Jersey Police investigated 11 formal social media criminal complaints and this year to date they have investigated 6. These complaints were investigated within existing Crime (Disorderly Conduct and Harassment) (Jersey) Law 2008.
As I have indicated previously, the States of Jersey Police are resourced to be able to respond to and investigate Cyber-Crime. However, like many other jurisdictions, the speed with which technology develops today can present challenges. The States of Jersey Police are seeking to enhance both Cyber-Crime capacity and capability throughout 2013.
Whilst some reported Cyber-Bullying can be investigated within either Harassment, Telecommunications or Data Protection Laws, the States of Jersey Police are currently reviewing Jersey legislation together with the Law Officers Department to assess opportunities for strengthening existing laws in order to provide the best possible support for victims and, where appropriate, bring perpetrators to justice.
It is not appropriate for me to go into the details of any specific complaints or investigations.