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New Trier students accused of spreading inappropriate pics
Six teens were charged with allegedly distributing inappropriate photographs via text and email following a five-week investigation of New Trier High School students.
Winnetka police confirmed the teens were charged as juveniles with distribution of harmful materials.
Winnetka Deputy Police Chief Joe Pellus said Wednesday that the department had no statement beyond information released Tuesday.
In the release, the department confirmed six male juveniles were arrested at 1:33 p.m. Oct. 25 and charged with distribution of harmful materials. The juveniles were referred to a peer jury.
After allegations arose in mid-September, New Trier High School Superintendent Linda Yonke sent a letter to parents saying the matter had been referred to police after school officials conducted “extensive initial interviews.”
Yonke also stated in the letter: “We know students may want to talk about this issue at home, and we hope families can use this opportunity to reinforce our Internet safety messages and to discuss the consequences and permanency of actions involving the Internet, social media, texting or other forms of electronic communication.”
New Trier District 203 spokeswoman Nicole Dizon said district administrators will work to better educate students on how to safely use technology.
“New Trier appreciates the thorough investigation by the Winnetka police into this matter,” Dizon wrote in an email. “Student safety is a fundamental priority at New Trier. We currently incorporate lessons on Internet safety into our health curriculum and the adviser program and we are in the process of developing additional programs for parents and students on the safe and responsible use of technology.”
Staff reporters Mitch Dudek and Steve Schering contributed to this report.
