Anti-bullying measure named for Cape teen now law
By
Jeremiah Jacobsen
Story Created:
Jun 10, 2008 at 9:46 PM EST
Story Updated:
Jun 10, 2008 at 10:28 PM EST
CAPE CORAL - A Cape Coral teen is part of Florida history. Jeff Johnston's name is attached to Florida's first anti-bullying measure, signed into law by Governor Charlie Crist. Jeff's mother, Debbie, led the crusade for Jeff's law.
"I worried about kidnappers, and murderers, and drugs, and alcohol, and gangs and all those things outside. I never for an instant considered that I'd lose my son by his own hand," Debbie Johnston said.
Jeff Johnston took his own life in June of 2005. His mother says it followed years of teasing and harrassment, first in middle school, and continuing to high school; both to his face, and in statements online.
"But because there was no law, no crime had taken place," Johnston said. "Florida's got a law now."
Soon after her son's death, Debbie Johnston started fighting to protect other children, hoping to pass a law requiring schools to do more to notify parents and stop the teasing and harrassment; and not just for the victims, but for the bullies as well.
"Jeff's law was not designed to be punitive. It was designed to protect students who become the victims of this person, and to get help and treatment for these kids who are exhibiting the bullying behavior."
It took Debbie Johnston nearly three years of trips to Tallahassee to get Jeff's Law passed. She committed to wearing one pair of shoes throughout that fight. Now, those shoes are retired and replaced, but her crusade is not over. Johnston says she's now pushing for national laws to protect kids across the country from bullying.
"You know, I think he really has changed the world."
Thursday, Jun 19 at 3:52 PM Anonymous wrote ...
To BASS824....How dare you come on here like that and make such a comment. You are probably one of those parents that laugh with your kids when they bully another. Most of the kids bullying other children are from the way the parents are with kids. Shame on you for putting something negative about something a woman has been trying so hard to fight for other children that have to go through what her son did. Deb Congratulations from CHARLOTTE COUNTY!!!
Wednesday, Jun 11 at 4:33 PM anonymous wrote ...
To BaSS824: You're an idiot! First of all it's enforceable, not "inforceable". Secondly, it's "Law-makers", not "Law Maker". Thirdly, its "matters", not "matter." Your grammar, spelling, etc. is reprehensible. Look that word up as I'm sure you have No idea what it means.
Wednesday, Jun 11 at 11:59 AM Alexander wrote ...
At least they are not sex offenders!
Wednesday, Jun 11 at 10:23 AM sassygal wrote ...
Please furnish the statute number so that it may be cited by other parents fighting for their child's rights.
Wednesday, Jun 11 at 10:17 AM BASS824 wrote ...
I truly believe that this is a complete waste of time and is not inforceable. Law maker need to focus and important matter and quit wasting time on a bunch of cry babies.
Wednesday, Jun 11 at 10:13 AM kathy wrote ...
CONGRATULATIONS!!! this law is going to change a lot the behavior of our kids, they are going to be comftable to speak.... I am so sorry for your son, but you are making him to be remember for ever, that's great. I am so proud of you! God Bless you very much!!! THANK YOU :)
Add a comment
Most Popular