You Can’t Hide Behind A Screen

You Can’t Hide Behind A Screen

By: Becca Soetje

PARIS (mocsnews.com)- Social media and online connection has become a huge part in our world’s culture. With that can also come bullying and online threats. In Paris, 13 people between the ages of 18 and 35 years old are on trial for online bullying and threats.

Paris recently made a new law that incriminates online crimes such as harassment and discrimination. The 13 accused are currently facing up to two years in prison and a 30,000 euro fine (about $37,000). Others wrote death threats and are facing harsher punishments such as a maximum of 3 years in prison and a 45,000 euro fine ($55,000). Online bullying has skyrocketed due to global internet access over the years. Paris made this law to help protect its citizens online as well.

 However, the victim of the online bullying is not totally blameless. The newly 18-year-old girl is known as Mila. With the new Paris laws against discrimination, Mila was found to have posted hateful comments about the Islamic community and the Quran. There is no information on if she will be charged as well.

Mila is currently being protected by her lawyer by saying she has the right to say what she wants to. That Mila has the “right to Blasphemy.” Inciting racial hatred charges were pressed against Mila. The charges were ultimately dropped because there was not enough substantial evidence for a conviction.