The internet has changed many Oregonians' lives for the better. It has given people access to people and things all around the world. It has also, through social media, connected people to social networks far beyond their local community. Sometimes, people turn to these social networks to vent or post about their frustrations. Whether or not people intend to act on what they talk about online, people can face serious criminal charges for internet posts.
For example, one man in Portland has recently faced criminal charges as a result of an alleged post in an internet forum. According to reports, the man complained about abuse he had suffered while attending a local Christian school. The man claimed to have suffered abuse from both the administration and from teachers.
Police claim that the man had posted online about becoming violent at the school. In the post, the man allegedly wrote that he was going to take a gun into the school and shoot the people who had abused him. Further, the man then claimed he was going to attack current students at the unnamed elementary and middle schools.
When police received this report, they claim that they searched the man's IP address to find his physical location. This eventually led to a search of his home. During this search, officials say they uncovered four weapons including handguns, a rifle and a shotgun.
He was therefore arrested and charged with the crime of felon in possession of a firearm.
It can be difficult for police and prosecutors to make distinctions about posts that are made online. Facing felony charges for posts can be extreme. In these situations, people should make sure to protect their legal rights especially when they were just using the internet to vent.
Source: Fox 12, "Man accused of plotting shooting at Christian school in Portland," Kurt Sevits, Sept. 13, 2015
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