State Sen. Carluccis says 'Bullycide' bill would protect New Yorkers from cyberbullying

Albany — A bill introduced this week by Sen. David Carlucci (D-Rockland/Orange) would make “bullycide” a felony if adopted. The bill would expand second-degree manslaughter to include death by cyberbullying when a perpetrator intentionally or recklessly causes a victim to commit suicide. It would be punishable by up to 15 years in prison. “More and more often we are hearing about people, especially young adults, who are being tormented by their peers through new media outlets such as Facebook and Twitter,” Carlucci said in a press release announcing his efforts. “Sadly, these new media tools are an easy and cowardly way for bullies to intimidate others in a public venue, causing extreme emotional damage to their victims.” Carlucci said serious consequences are needed to hold cyberbullies accountable for their actions. “This bill sends that message loud and clear,” he said. The bill also updates the charge of third-degree stalking to include cyberbullying, which is defined as using electronic communications to cause fear, harm or emotional distress to a person under 21 years old.