Sexting Definition: The act of sending, receiving or forwarding sexually explicit messages or photos electronically, primarily between cell phones, but also on the Internet (i.e. Facebook, MySpace).

Dangers of Sexting You can NEVER assume that anything you send or post on the Internet or through cyberspace is private. Anything you post or send will never truly go away. It lasts forever online. You also have no control of its distribution. Many sexting recipients pass the image to someone else who the sender may or may not know.

Potential Legal Consequences Any student who sends or receives nude, semi-nude or sexually suggestive photos, can be charged under the Texas Penal Code with Felony transmission of the photos Felony obscenity Felony child pornography If convicted, one could face required registration as a sex offender. Child pornography extends to anyone under age 18. Legally, in Texas, a 17-yearold is considered old enough to be tried as an adult.

Potential Legal Consequences Across the nation, children and adolescents are facing dire consequences. Recently an eighth grader in Texas spent time in jail after his coach discovered illegal photos on his cell phone. A student in Florida, for example, was required to register as a sex offender.

Court Cases Involving Sexting Child pornography charges were brought against six teenagers in Greensburg, Pennsylvania in January 2009 after three girls sent sexually explicit photographs to three male classmates. In Fort Wayne, Indiana, a teenage boy was indicted on felony obscenity charges for allegedly sending a photo of his genitals to several female classmates. A 15-year-old Ohio girl & a 14-year-old Michigan girl have been charged with felonies for sexting.

School Responsibilities An educator who becomes aware of the cell phone or computer transmission of a nude/partially nude photo of a minor student has a duty to report the matter to CPS or the local police under Texas Family Code 261.101. Local Policy - Refer to the student code of conduct for consequences of Cyber- Bullying and Harassment (pg 100).

What about the Long Term? Think about the long term consequences of “sexting” – about who might get hold of the information -- future employers -- scholarships -- college admissions officers

More Dangers Change people’s opinion of you – unwanted reputation or expecting more sexually from you. Cause Bullying – a sext that gets into the wrong hands can not only be embarrassing, but can lead to bullying in person or online. Attract sexual predators – remember with just a few details a predator may be able to find you in person.

More Consequences Far worse – at least two students – a 13 year old girl in Florida and an 18 year old girl in Ohio, took their own lives out of humiliation and despair after they sexted photos of themselves. http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/29613192/

Be Smart! Think before you share any message or image. Ask yourself – Would I want this posted on my school bulletin board? Would I want my parents, teachers, or coach to see this? Or a future college or employer? Would I feel comfortable saying to showing this in person or in public. Treat electronic communications like postcards – many eyes may see them. Report any nude pictures you receive on your cell phone to an adult you trust. Do not delete the message.

Resources: Channing Bete Company MSNBC SafeTeens.com NetSmartz.org