14-04-2025
This Kentucky city could recognize bullying as a misdemeanor
LONDON, Ky. (FOX 56) — Within the city limits of London, bullying could soon be considered a Class A misdemeanor.
Mayor Randall Weddle said on Monday, April 14, that he will ask the city council to pass ordinance 2025-05 in May's city council meeting. The ordinance aims to recognize 'bullying' as a punishable crime.
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According to KRS 532.090, a class A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 12 months of imprisonment.
'Bullying is more than 'kids being kids' it is a serious, harmful behavior that has devastating consequences for our youth and their families,' Weddle wrote. 'This ordinance is not just about punishment; it's about sending a clear message: London stands with our kids and families. We will not tolerate bullying in our community.'
Weddle pointed to the following statistics as proof:
Nationally, 1 in 5 middle and high school students report being bullied each year.
In Kentucky, 41% of middle school students have experienced in-person bullying; 29% have been cyberbullied.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among adolescents in the U.S.
In Kentucky, 15% of high school and 17.4% of middle school students have seriously considered suicide.
Bullied teens are 2x more likely to consider suicide and 2.5x more likely to attempt it compared to their non-bullied peers.
'These aren't just numbers. These are lives. Futures lost. Families devastated,' he emphasized.
Weddle urged that passing the ordinance would make London a city that leads with 'heart, courage, and action.'
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'With the passage of Ordinance No. 2025-05, we take a bold, compassionate step forward. We give our schools, law enforcement, and families a tool to say, 'Enough.' We show our children that we will fight for them, that their safety matters, and that our city is committed to standing up not standing by,' Weddle wrote.
City Council meetings are held on the first Monday of each month. The next London City Council meeting will take place at 5:30 p.m. on May 5.
Click here to watch Weddle's video on the ordinance.
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