MCPO Members Talk Bias and Bullying with Byram Intermediate Students

Published on December 06, 2021

On December 2, 2021, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Samantha DeNegri and Sergeant Patrick LaGuerre visited Byram Intermediate School, and led a presentation on cyberbullying and bias issues.

Presenters stressed the importance of exercising good judgement when it comes to how you interact with others or what you post online, especially when it comes to posting or sharing photos or videos. Another point the presenters emphasized was that photos and videos on your phone can still be accessed even after you believe you’ve deleted them from your device.

Presenters explained to the students the difference between bias crimes and bias incidents, and how schools can issue their own disciplinary actions even if a situation isn’t considered criminal. They explained the potential consequences of using social media and messaging apps to harass people.

Members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office routinely visit schools throughout Morris County to present on these important topics, and to talk directly with students. Recently, Sgt. LaGuerre and SAP DeNegri visited Randolph High School to give a similar presentation.

Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said, “Education is key to preventing our young people from becoming involved with cyberbullying and potential bias incidents. I applaud SAP DeNegri and Sgt. LaGuerre for having these important discussions in our schools and for engaging with the students.”

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. 

 

From left to right: School Counselor Rosanna Hawkins-Shields, Principal Timothy McCorkle, SAP Samantha DeNegri, Sgt. Patrick LaGuerre, and Assistant Principal Peter Morris.