Peters Twp. police investigating photos of nude students
McMURRAY – Peters Township police are investigating nude and partially nude photos of female Peters Township Middle School students that were found on the cellphone of a male classmate.
The incident was reported to township police last week, said Deputy Chief Douglas Grimes. The photos of the students were taken off school property, police said.
“It’s an active investigation,” said Grimes, adding all parents should be aware of what their children have on their phones.
“It’s a problem at every school,” he added.
The boy was reported to teachers by another student who saw the photos, he said. Police said no charges were filed, but the investigation is continuing. Police also said the families of all those involved were notified.
In October, Peters Township School District held a technology safety forum – “The Darker Side of Social Media” – for middle-school students on the inappropriate uses of technology and cautioned students on using their cellphones to shoot questionable photos. At the assembly, students were encouraged to report any misuse of technology that they witness to an adult.
“Last week, a male middle school student was reported to have inappropriate photos of females on his phone during the school day,” said Shelly Belcher, a district spokesperson. “The matter was immediately turned over to the Peters Township police who are investigating.” She would not say if the student has been suspended.
“While the pictures were reportedly taken outside the school setting, disciplinary actions have been taken by the school. All PTMS students took part in a proactive assembly earlier this year detailing the dangers of the inappropriate uses of technology and the related consequences. This type of behavior is not tolerated by the Peters Township School District.”