No criminal charges in Georgia teen’s suicide, bullying

Rachel Brown
The Daily Citizen
Chattsworth, Georgia — No one will be charged at Murray County High School in connection with alleged bullying incidents David and Tina Long say led to their son’s Oct. 17 suicide.

The couple asked the Chatsworth Police Department to look into their son Tyler’s last days, saying he took his life because he was distraught over years of being bullied at school. They say the school system didn’t try to protect their son or adequately address their complaints, and they are considering filing a lawsuit against it.

Tina Long says she’s not giving up and will continue to work to raise awareness of the impact of bullying in school and the tragedy that can occur if it isn’t addressed. Tyler had Asperger’s syndrome, a mild form of autism, which further complicated his situation, his parents said.

“We’re going to fight as long and hard as we have to to get bullying stopped,” Tina Long said.

Chatsworth police chief Terry Martin did not return several phone messages left on Friday. A written statement from detective Jim Whitehead said, “… After conducting interviews and reviewing videotapes, the police department has decided that no criminal charges are forthcoming in the case.

“The police department would like to send condolences to the Long family for the loss of their son. David Long, a retired military service member, and Tina Long, a registered nurse, (have) certainly served their community well, and losing their son is tragic for the family and community.” Full story.