MCPO Visits Morris Plains Borough Middle School Talk Bias/Bullying
Published on February 24, 2022
On February 17, 2022, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Samantha DeNegri and Sergeant Patrick LaGuerre visited the students of Morris Plains Borough Middle School, and lead a presentation on bias issues, cyber harassment and making smart choices about social media.
The presenters stressed exercising good judgement when it comes to how you interact with others or what you post on social media, because how you conduct yourself online could potentially impact your future. Social media and technology today document everything, even photos and messages you believe are deleted or only temporary can be accessed and potentially shared after being deleted.
SAP DeNegri and Sgt. LaGuerre explained the difference between bias crimes and bias incidents, walking students through the reporting and investigation process. They explained that school administrators can choose to take disciplinary action even if an incident isn’t considered criminal.
Students were able to ask questions of the presenters during and after the program.
The MCPO routinely holds bias and bullying presentations at area schools to communicate directly with students. This winter, Sgt. LaGuerre and SAP DeNegri visited Byram Lakes Intermediate School, Copeland Middle School, Green Hills School, and Randolph Middle School.
Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said, “It is important to my office that the students of Morris County are properly educated on the dangers of bullying, bias crimes and making poor choices when it comes to social media. We are absolutely committed to helping our students understand the long-term damage that can result from these behaviors, as well as identifying strategies to resist such actions.”
Media inquiries concerning this press release should be directed to Public Information Officer Meghan Knab at [email protected] or by phone at 973-829-8159.
Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sergeant Patrick LaGuerre, School Counselor Brian Wilson, and Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Samantha DeNegri.