Morris County Prosecutor's Office Brings Awareness to Bias and Cyber Harassment with Local Students

Samantha DeNegri and Patrick LaGuerre from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office (MCPO) have been on a mission this winter to educate students on bias issues, cyber harassment, and how to exercise good judgment when it comes to online interactions. As part of an ongoing program to engage local youth, SAP DeNegri and Sgt. LaGuerre visited three different schools in New Jersey, including Villa Walsh Academy, Union Catholic Academy, and Mountain Lakes High School, in January and February 2023.

During their presentations, the MCPO representatives urged students to be mindful of their online behavior because everything is documented and saved on social media platforms. They highlighted the potential long-term impact that reckless online behavior could have on a student's future, even if something appears to have been deleted or intended for temporary viewing.

In addition to discussing cyber harassment, the presenters also talked about bias crimes and bias incidents. They explained the difference between the two and cautioned students that school administrators can take disciplinary action even if an incident isn't considered criminal.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said, “The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office shares an absolute commitment to help our students understand the long-term damage that can result from bias and bullying behaviors. Our office also aims to assist district administrators to improve school safety measures by reaching out to law enforcement if concerning behaviors are reported. During our recent memorandum of agreement signing and security summit, law enforcement and Morris County school administrators reaffirmed their commitment to the safety of our students and educators through improved communications and sponsoring these informative programs.”

Last year, the MCPO conducted over a dozen similar assemblies at public and private schools in Morris, Warren, and Sussex counties. Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll emphasized the importance of helping students understand the long-term damage that can result from bias and bullying behaviors. He also expressed his desire to improve school safety measures by partnering with law enforcement and Morris County school administrators to address concerning behaviors reported by students.

The MCPO's ongoing educational program reflects a growing commitment to safeguard the well-being of students and educators in Morris County. By engaging with local youth and promoting informative programs, the MCPO is working to create a safer and more inclusive community for everyone