A 14-year-old boy in Orillia has not attended school regularly for months after becoming the target of online rumours and threats that rapidly spread among local youth through social media, according to his guardian.
Susan Jones, the teen’s grandmother and legal guardian, said the harassment began last autumn with messages and escalated into threats and in-person intimidation. She alleged that false accusations circulated among students and later appeared on a page hosted on TikTok, where users were invited to submit stories about classmates.
Threats and anxiety
Jones said police were contacted after her grandson received threatening messages, including images of a knife. The Ontario Provincial Police were involved early, and she said officers advised that the situation warranted a no-contact order.
Despite that, she claims the harassment continued through different individuals. The teen was allegedly followed home on multiple occasions, and in one instance, students reportedly stole his bicycle while he sought refuge inside a school building.
The ongoing incidents have reportedly led to severe anxiety. Jones said her grandson struggles to remain inside the school building for more than a few minutes before becoming overwhelmed.
Limits of intervention
The family has worked with therapists, school officials and police. Jones acknowledged efforts were made but said challenges arose when behaviour occurred online or off school grounds.
Police guidance states that cyberbullying can include spreading rumours, sharing harmful content or issuing threats, and in some cases may amount to criminal offences such as harassment or uttering threats.
Authorities advise families to document incidents, report safety concerns to police and schools, and notify social media platforms.
Jones hopes sharing the story encourages parents and students to reflect on the consequences of online behaviour.
“Graduating matters,” she said, “but feeling safe and wanting to be alive matters more.”
If you or someone you know is struggling due to bullying or emotional distress, seek support from trusted adults, school counsellors or local helplines.