Eighth Graders Face Charges for Racist Online Chat and Mock Auction

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Southwick, MA - Six eighth-graders in Southwick, Massachusetts, are facing criminal charges for their participation in a racist online chat that included threats, hateful language, and a disturbing mock slave auction.

The incident occurred on Snapchat between February 8th and 9th. Investigators allege the group chat involved hateful comments targeting people of color, racial slurs, derogatory content, and a mock auction targeting two specific students.

Although Snapchat messages are designed to disappear after viewing, investigators believe screenshots or other methods captured the content.

After the chat was reported to school officials on February 9th, six students were suspended from Southwick Regional School. Local authorities then notified the Hampden District Attorney's office.

Charges and Response

One student is facing charges of interference with civil rights, threat to commit a crime, and witness interference. A second student faces charges of interference with civil rights and threat to commit a crime. The remaining four students are charged with threatening to commit a crime. Due to their age, the identities of the students remain confidential, and the charges were filed in juvenile court.

Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni condemned the incident and met with the victims and their families.

"Hatred and racism have no place in this community," Gulluni stated. "There is no question that the alleged behavior of these six juveniles is vile, cruel, and contemptible."

This incident highlights the ongoing battle and the importance of addressing it within schools and communities.

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