Court says online harassment violates state law

Posted By Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass || 5-Jan-2015

From cyberstalking to copyright infringement and computer fraud, there are a wide variety of internet crimes. In Dallas, Texas, those who are facing these charges may be unsure of what to do next. After all, cybercrime laws are often somewhat new and may be confusing. As a result, people who are going through this should do everything they can to identify the proper course of action.

In Massachusetts, the Supreme Judicial Court recently determined that online harassment violates state law. As a result, those who are found guilty of harassing people on the internet could be punished under the current laws. This ruling upheld the conviction of two people from Andover who were tied to fraudulent online posts and the fake filing of a child abuse claim.

According to the Essex District Attorney, online harassment is increasing in modern society and this conviction marks the first time authorities have had clear authorization to prosecute someone for an internet crime under a Massachusetts anti-harassment statute. The district attorney also said that this case will send the proper message to people regarding cyber harassment.

In recent years, more and more people have found themselves in court after being accused of committing a cyber crime. When it comes to internet crimes, many people are not aware of how serious the penalties often are and also do not know how to approach the legal system. As a result, anyone dealing with cybercrime allegations should make sure they analyze their options. For some, talking to an attorney is a great way to help ensure that the appropriate steps are taken.

Source: The Boston Globe, "Harassment via Internet a crime, SJC rules," John R. Ellement and Travis Anderson, Dec. 23, 2014