MANDATA - Cpl. Carl Finnerty, of the South Williamsport Police Department, addressed the dangers of internet misuse as guest speaker of the second Line Mountain Community Awareness Night Tuesday evening.
The 17-year veteran spoke to a small, but attentive, group about the dangers of online predators, cyber bullying and sexting, which he described as teens sending pornographic photos of themselves to friends.
"When it comes to social sites, if someone is using them appropriately- good," Finnerty said. "I see it too often, however, that too much (personal) information is out there and we (officers) are having too many issues."
According to Finnerty, his police department has seen an increase of harassment and threat calls since social media sites became more popular. He said there is no difference between bullying in person and through the internet.
Differences in physical appearance, clothing and ethnic backgrounds, ability to handle emotions and excelling in school are reasons children get bullied, he added.
"Kids don't understand you can be your own person," he explained. "You can be who ever you want to be as long as your not hurting yourself, someone else or someone's property."
Lisa LaForme, foster parent of Britney Tongel, who committed suicide in February after she was cyber-bullied, candidly spoke after Britney's photo was shown with other children who have taken their lives.
"These social sites can turn into pissing matches. If you think something is going, pick it (computer) up and read it," LaForme said. "Please be vigilant. I want everyone to understand what happened and why it happened. We need to educate ourselves what's going on. I learned the hard way."