BOTHELL — The Bothell Police Department has confiscated 11 cellphones as part of an investigation into sexting among junior high school students.
Police learned of the situation from the Northshore School District on Friday.
It appears there are several boys who encouraged girls throughout the school year to send nude photographs of themselves to the boys’ cellphones, Bothell police Sgt. Ken Seuberlich said.
“It’s in the early stages of the investigation,” Seuberlich said.
The allegations came to the attention of the school district late Thursday. District officials say they are looking into possible sexting activity at Canyon Park and Skyview junior highs. They sent online safety tips to families of all secondary students on Monday.
A student brought the issue to school officials, said school district spokeswoman Leanna Albrecht.
“It is alleged that in a couple of instances girls have been pressured to send images or threatened that their photos would be shared unless they sent more,” the district wrote in a letter to families.
School officials also are early in their investigation. They have yet to take disciplinary action.
Police detectives are conducting interviews, identifying suspects and victims, notifying parents and collecting evidence.
In Washington, it is it illegal to disseminate, possess, and view pictures of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Seuberlich encouraged parents to talk with their teens about safe Internet, cellphone and social media behavior. He also said he hopes people will step forward with information.
“It’s always better to come forward and say, ‘This is what I know,’ than to have the police come to you and say, ‘This is what I know,’” he said.
Anyone who has information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact the Bothell Police Department at 425-486-1254.
Eric Stevick: 425-339-3446, stevick@heraldnet.com
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