After Libby’s death, police call for tough anti-bully laws
THE heartbroken parents of an Adelaide schoolgirl who suicided have backed a push to create a bullying-specific law that would put serious offenders in jail for up to 10 years.
Police Commissioner Grant Stevens said the State Government should consider strengthening legislation to make it easier to prosecute bullies, in the wake of the tragic death of Libby Bell, 13.
The Seaford Secondary College Year 8 student died on August 28 after enduring what her family alleges was years of cyber bullying over Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat.
She was also subject to physical abuse from peers, including at a fast food outlet last year when she was filmed having a drink poured over her.
Police have revealed they have not ruled out laying criminal charges over the teen’s death.
Libby’s uncle, Clint Gow-Smith, 39, said Libby’s mother Crystal and her husband Ryan supported Mr Stevens’ call for the introduction of a law similar to Brodie’s Law – introduced in Victoria in 2011 after 19-year-old waitress Brodie Panlock ended her life five years earlier amid humiliating and intimidating bullying by co-workers.
Under the law, people who cause physical or mental harm through bullying face up to a decade in jail.
He said Libby’s mum intended to become an anti-bullying advocate and encourage youngsters to “speak up”.
She has also pledged to fight for justice for Libby.
“I would have backed you the whole way and given my life for you to be at peace with yours,” she posted on Facebook.
“Those that bully and so-called friends that didn’t speak up, they failed you gorgeous girl and we won’t stop fighting for you until they are held accountable.”
Steph Hamer, whose daughter Lauren is in Year 10 at Seaford Secondary College, said bullying was rife within schools and particularly rampant online.
“People are just so horrible online to young girls,” she said.
“My daughter has said that the things she reads online are really awful.”
If you or someone you know needs help, phone Lifeline on 131 114 or the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.