Sheriff Grady Judd Blames Parents In Florida Bully Case

Sheriff Grady Judd has taken a personal interest in the Florida bully case. On Monday, the sheriff announced the arrest of two girls accused of relentlessly bullying Rebecca Ann Sedwick. The abuse eventually drove the 12-year-old to commit suicide.

Guadalupe Shaw, age 14, and an unidentified 12-year-old girl were arrested on charges of aggravated stalking, The 12-year-old was released to her parents. The 14-year-old remains incarcerated in a juvenile detention facility.

Authorities said Shaw instigated a majority of the abuse. In addition to verbal bullying during school, Shaw is accused of harassing Sedwick through social media. Following the suicide, Shaw posted a chilling message on her Facebook page:

“Yes ik (I know) I bullied Rebecca nd she killed her self but IDGAF (I don’t give a f**k.)”

Sheriff Grady Judd has committed to prosecuting anyone accused of bullying or stalking. As reported by Orlando Sentinel, the sheriff blames the teen’s parents for failing to monitor her behavior.

Judd said Shaw’s parents were aware of the bullying issue. Despite that knowledge, they allowed their daughter to use social media to maintain contact with her friends.

Shaw’s parents contend they monitored their daughter’s social media usage. They said they never found any evidence that their daughter participated in bullying. They suggest the 14-year-old’s Facebook account was hacked.

Sheriff Judd is outraged that bullies drove Rebecca Sedwick to commit suicide. His harsh reaction to the Florida bully case underlines his commitment to prevent similar tragedies. However, critics are saying the sheriff overstepped his duties.

As reported by Fox News, the sheriff made a decision to release the suspects’ names and photos. Critics say the exposure may compromise the girls’ case or their safety.

Defense attorney Jeff Brown said the sheriff “is doing an awful lot of prejudging.” Brown said the Florida bully case should be handled by prosecutors, attorneys, and a judge. Not Sheriff Grady Judd.

[Image via Flickr]