“No deaths down to cyber-bullying” - minister

Sunday 22 June 2014

There have been no deaths in Jersey attributed to cyber-bullying, according to Home Affairs Minister Ian Le Marquand.

The minister has taken the unusual step of issuing a statement to respond to claims made in the States by Deputy Mike Higgins that cyber-bullying has led to deaths here in Jersey.

Police stats have revealed that nine cases have been reported since the end of January and two complaints have resulted in prosecutions.

But Senator Le Marquand says that research with the Viscount – who investigates all suspicious, unexpected or unusual deaths – and the police say that there is no evidence to back up the claims.

A statement from the Home Affairs department said: “The Minister for Home Affairs would like to respond to claims made on Tuesday by a States Member of Islanders being bullied to death in cases of cyber bullying.

“These claims are misleading and the Minister is advised (a) that to date there have been no inquests held in Jersey where cyber-bullying has been found to be a contributory factor to the cause of death; and (b) that the States of Jersey Police are not aware of any such cases.

“When reported to the police all cases of cyber bullying are investigated thoroughly, and where there is evidence that bullying is occurring steps will be taken to help the victim and prevent it occurring again.

“If anyone has any knowledge of people being bullied online then we would urge them to report it to the police.”

Stats from the NSPCC last year showed that 38% of children had been affected by cyber-bullying.