Police said Friday they were investigating threats made against a 16-year-old student who fought for and won the removal of a prayer banner at Cranston High School West.
Jessica Ahlquist has faced harassment both in person and online. She said the court battle has cost her friends and that she doesn't know if she'll return to the school.
A federal judge ruled Wednesday that the prayer banner in the school auditorium is unconstitutional and must be removed. School officials covered it with a green tarp while they decide whether to appeal.
But debate over the banner hasn't been silenced.
"I think it's been a distraction to the kids in the school. I'll be glad when it's over, things blow over," said parent Kristen Ciacciarelli.
Online, the discussion is far from blowing over. Hateful posts hit Facebook, Twitter and other blogs. Threats have been aimed directly at the 16-year-old Ahlquist, a self-proclaimed atheist.
"It's been very disappointing to read many of the comments being made, not only by students but also the public at large. It's been a difficult time for Jessica and her family as well as the district," Ray Votto, the chief operating officer of Cranston.
Cranston school officials said they are working with police to help protect the teen. NBC 10 has learned that one Cranston public school student has been disciplined because of an online post.
"Police and school personnel are definitely cracking down on it. They see the effects of it and they will take legal action against it," said Amanda Hannon of Stop Bullying Now RI.
School officials said the student who made a post does not attend Cranston West and was not suspended. They wouldn't go into further detail. [1]
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