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Cyberbullying has become a growing concern in our increasingly digital world. As more and more of our lives move online, the potential for harassment, intimidation, and bullying via electronic means has skyrocketed. In response to this troubling trend, many states have enacted laws specifically targeting cyberbullying behavior. Iowa is no exception.In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into Iowa’s sentencing guidelines for cyberbullying crimes. We’ll explore the specific laws on the books, the potential penalties for violators, and some high-profile cases that have helped shape the legal landscape in this area. Whether you’re a concerned parent, an educator, or just someone who wants to stay informed, this article will provide you with a comprehensive overview of where things stand in the Hawkeye State.Iowa’s Cyberbullying Laws – A Closer LookSo, what exactly constitutes cyberbullying under Iowa law? The key statute to be aware of is Iowa Code section 708.7, which prohibits harassment via electronic communication. This includes any communication that is intended to intimidate, annoy, or alarm another person and serves no legitimate purpose.Some examples of behavior that could fall under this umbrella include:

• Sending threatening or demeaning messages via social media, email, or text
• Posting embarrassing photos or videos of someone online without their consent
• Spreading false rumors or gossip about an individual on the internet
• Repeatedly contacting someone online after being asked to stop

It’s important to note that for behavior to rise to the level of criminal harassment, it typically needs to be part of a pattern of conduct rather than a one-off incident. However, even a single act of cyberbullying can be prosecuted if it’s particularly egregious or causes significant harm to the victim.Potential Penalties for Cyberbullying in IowaSo what kind of punishment are cyberbullies facing under Iowa law? It depends on the severity of the offense and whether the perpetrator has any prior convictions. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• For a first offense, cyberbullying is typically charged as a simple misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of $105 to $855.
• A second offense within 10 years bumps the charge up to a serious misdemeanor, with a potential sentence of up to 1 year in jail and a fine of $430 to $2,560.
• If the cyberbullying includes a credible threat of violence, the charge can be elevated to an aggravated misdemeanor, regardless of whether it’s a first or subsequent offense. An aggravated misdemeanor conviction can result in up to 2 years behind bars and a fine of $855 to $8,540.

It’s worth noting that these are just the criminal penalties. Cyberbullying victims may also have the option to pursue civil damages against their harasser. This can include compensation for things like mental anguish, damage to reputation, and any financial losses resulting from the harassment.High-Profile Cyberbullying Cases in IowaTo get a better sense of how these laws play out in the real world, let’s take a look at a couple notable cyberbullying cases that have made headlines in Iowa in recent years.One high-profile incident involved a former Iowa State University student named Patrick Whetstone. In 2016, Whetstone was arrested and charged with 3rd degree harassment for allegedly cyberbullying another student via Twitter. According to court documents, Whetstone tweeted a photo of the victim with the caption “Ready to get raped” and sent her a string of threatening direct messages.Whetstone ultimately pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of disorderly conduct and was sentenced to 1 year of probation, a $315 fine, and a 10-year ban from the ISU campus. The case garnered significant attention and sparked discussions about the need for stricter cyberbullying laws and better support for victims.Another cyberbullying story that made waves in Iowa involved a 12-year-old boy in the town of Glenwood. In 2017, the boy’s mother discovered that he was being relentlessly harassed on Instagram by a classmate who was sending him messages like “Go kill yourself” and “You’re a loser.”The bully’s parents were informed, but the harassment continued. The victim’s mother eventually filed a police report, and the bully was charged with 3rd degree harassment. In juvenile court, he was sentenced to 6 months probation and ordered to have no contact with the victim, write an apology letter, and complete community service.While the outcome of this case was ultimately positive, it underscores the challenges of addressing cyberbullying among young people. Many experts argue that early intervention, education, and restorative justice approaches are key to preventing these situations from escalating.Cyberbullying Resources and Support in IowaIf you or someone you know is being cyberbullied, it’s essential to remember that you’re not alone and there are resources available to help. Some key organizations and initiatives to be aware of in Iowa include:

• The Iowa Safe Schools Alliance – This statewide network works to create safe and supportive learning environments for all students, with a focus on preventing bullying, harassment, and violence. They offer training, resources, and support for schools, families, and youth.
• The Iowa Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force – This multi-agency effort is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting online crimes against children, including cyberbullying. They also provide education and outreach to help keep kids safe online.
• The Iowa Bullying Prevention Council – Established by the state legislature in 2015, this council brings together stakeholders from education, law enforcement, public health, and other sectors to study the problem of bullying and recommend policy solutions.

There are also national organizations like the Cyberbullying Research Center and StopBullying.gov that offer a wealth of information and resources on this topic.The Bottom Line on Iowa’s Cyberbullying LawsCyberbullying is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences for victims. Iowa has taken steps to address this problem by enacting specific laws against electronic harassment and imposing significant penalties on offenders. However, the law can only do so much.Ultimately, preventing cyberbullying requires a multi-faceted approach that includes education, awareness, and a commitment from all of us to create a more kind and respectful online culture. By working together and looking out for one another, we can help make the internet a safer space for everyone.Additional Resources:

• Iowa Code section 708.7 – Harassment
• Cyberbullying in Iowa: What Every Parent Should Know
• Cyberbullying: The New Face of an Old Problem
• How to Deal with Cyberbullying as an Adult
• When Does Cyberbullying Become a Crime?
• Cyberbullying Laws in Iowa
• Iowa Cyberbullying Laws and Policies
• Iowa Cyberbullying Laws