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Readers respond in force to story on suicide, MySpace hoax
This newspaper has received an incredible response to Sunday's story on the death of Megan Meier, a 13-year-old who lived in Dardenne Prairie and committed suicide last year.
Many of you expressed appreciation to me and to the Journal for running the story.
Some of you have asked your children to read the story and have requested/demanded to look at their MySpace pages.
Of course, there has been outrage over the fact that Josh Evans - a 16-year-old who never existed - was created not by a teen, but by an adult. That anger is reflected in the comments posted on the Journal's Web sites.
Since the story ran Sunday Tina Meier, Megan's mother, has been contacted by other media outlets.
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In brief, here's what happened.
Josh Evans had taken an interest in Megan, who for much of her life had battled depression and struggled with her weight. But according to her parents she was the happiest she had ever been.
Megan ended her life after Josh, whom she never actually met, suddenly became mean to her.
Six weeks after she died her parents discovered that Josh was created by a neighbor down the block, an adult woman whose own daughter had once been Megan's friend. This woman knew of Megan's depression, says Tina Meier.
According to a police report filed by the woman down the block, she created the account to check to see what Megan was saying, if anything, about her daughter. According to the police report, the woman, her daughter and an 18-year-old part-time employee monitored the Josh Evans account.
In Sunday's story the Journal did not name the woman because the newspaper did not want to identify her daughter. It was a decision I supported.
A few of you took us to task for not naming this woman.
I understand the loss the Meiers feel. But I told Tina in our very first conversation that even though we might have the legal right to publish a name, it doesn't necessarily mean we will.
Here are some of your comments. Many are taken from our Web sites.
"I have never responded to a news article before, but your story has not only moved me, made me cry, but has angered me. You are right. These laws need to change along with our so-called child predator laws." - Lisa K.
"The realization this can actually happen is truly frightening. THANK YOU for printing it" - R. W. Bross
"Your story in today's paper about Megan was sad but unfortunately an eye opener for every parent out there with a child that loves the Internet." - Heidi
"I hope your article strikes a chord with kids who may be planning (or may be currently doing) similar pranks on their friends, and make parents 'take notice.'" - Raymond Stone, St. Charles
"Your article in this morning's St. Charles Journal regarding the tragic and senseless suicide of young Megan Meier last fall, and the resulting criminal, legal, and familial progress and aftereffects, was a very powerful and moving piece, and I thank you for telling it." - Mandy Matthews
"I admire the courage of the Meiers to tell this story, and am astounded that it was actually ADULTS behind the fake identity that caused this young person so much unnecessary grief. It seems to me that justice has not been served in this matter." - GS
"This is a wake up call and I hope this story is out on the Internet for all parents to read and realize this could happen to them." - Kellie Keling, Wentzville
"I am a journalist myself, and I know the policy regarding not naming sexual assault victims, but none are involved here, and I cannot understand how you came to the decision not to name them." - Brian Russell, Alton
"This article was so upsetting that it made me sick to my stomach." - Ashley
"Parents today are so worried about being their child's friend and playing these adolescent games to prove how cool they are to their kid and the kid's friends, when what the kid needs is a parent." - Rachel
"This story is touching and sad. There should be a law and the Meiers would have my support.
Mrs. Meier, don't blame yourself for your daughter's death." - Tammy
And finally, a letter from someone who still feels the pain, and still struggles to look to the future, not to the past.
"I am hopeful that with this article we can start our journey to change the law and not let another family go through what we have gone through." - Tina Meier, St. Charles
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130 comment(s)
Kru wrote on Apr 2, 2008 12:21 AM:
" You can't just blame this woman. I'm not saying that I agree with what she did, I am far from it. The victim's mother should have stepped in and not allowed her daughter to even have a Myspace account. You have to be 14 to have one and the girl was only 13. She could have gone to greater lenghts to make sure that her daughter wasn't talking to him. Neither of the to woman knew this "Josh Evans" so why should she be talking to him in the first place? I am not baming anyone in this case, yet it shows that our children are creating fake Myspace accounts to talk to older people and everyone get's hyped up about child predators on the internet...quick cure...make sure your child reads over the Terms of Service for a new website or if you know that they are too young then tell them that they cannot do it for the very fact that they are too young. My kid sister who is 11 years old was opening up a Myspace page and I took it to her father with concern. He said he didn't see the harm in it. I guess I don't get why if you are too young to have a Myspace that the parents are still allowing usage of the site. Simply say no to them.It's better to prtect your kids than let them kill themselves over Myspace. "
Amy Choi, Oregon wrote on Mar 11, 2008 10:44 PM:
" I am absolutely disgusted with the Adults who intentionally and maliciously tried to inflict this kind of emotional distress on a young girl. I cannot believe more parents aren't outraged. This could have happened to any of your children. Now they will get away with it and there's nothing to stop them from resorting to this kind of behavior in the future. If I had a child that lived in your area I wouldn't want her exposed to predators like that. "
Audrey wrote on Jan 22, 2008 6:50 PM:
" My opinion of all these things the kids are allowed to get into such as mySpace ,facebook all these such things should be done
away with or have stricter rules
There is such a thing as wrongful death suit file one it won,t bring your daughter back but maybe it will teach them a lesson "
away with or have stricter rules
There is such a thing as wrongful death suit file one it won,t bring your daughter back but maybe it will teach them a lesson "
Audrey wrote on Jan 22, 2008 6:45 PM:
" My opinion of all these things the kids are allowed to get into such as mySpace ,facebook all these such things should be done away with or have stricter rules "
Delzog wrote on Dec 1, 2007 4:31 AM:
" The fault lies with the parents. I don't condone any of their actions. But children do not need to be on the internet. Too many people are ignorant of how dangerous the internet is. I would suggest age restricting the entire internet as X-rated content and hold parents responsible who provide access the same as we would if they provide other illegal substances. At the very least, blog sites and such should require a credit card as age and idenitiy verification. It is not an invasion of privacy to do so as the information is voluntarily submitted and wouldn't be made available to the general public. But it would curtail child pornography, internet bullying, violent or suggestive content, and the host of other internet predators. That's my 2 cents. "
Catherine, MD wrote on Nov 23, 2007 2:07 PM:
" I would like to say that I have a decent understanding of Megan's emotional state. I've suffered for depression and Bi-Polar disorder for the majority of my life. I started seriously considering suicide around the age of 11 yrs. I've always struggled with my weight and never had a boyfriend until i was 23. The "Mother" said she knew of Megan's depression. She knew that Megan was vulnerable. In my mind, it is intentional infliction of emotional distress. When you take someone who is already vulnerable, publicly humiliate her, pretend to be a romantic interest and then turn on her, you deserve to be held liable. Megan's parents were treating her depression. A lot of parents just ignore their childrens' emotional/mental problems. It is impossible to watch someone 24 hrs a day unless you put them in a hospital. Their SHOULD be some way to hold these 3 people liable for this girls death. They intentionally caused her emotional grief. When you are depressed your emotions are amplified, you no longer think logically. Megan is not responsible for her death. I do not believe that God will punish her for her suicide. He always said not to harm or hinder His children. This "Mother" will have her day of reckoning, if not in this life, then in the next. "
Danya wrote on Nov 20, 2007 11:19 AM:
" I cant belive that they wouldnt publish the names of the women and the daughter.. grow up you caused a 13 yr, old so much grief (at that age they have so much to deal with already,) to go so far and kill her self!!! the girl was how old..18 like god, thats sick and i hope that the women and the daughter gets what they desevers like rotting somewhere in some remote prison down in Cambodia what they desever, mrs. meier i had a couison kill him self at his own will but to have someone fuel the fire thats sick and i hope the rott! "
lori wrote on Nov 20, 2007 9:17 AM:
" The mothers name is all over the web. even on youtube...
When did we become a communistic country? "
Zain wrote on Nov 20, 2007 8:25 AM:
" Posters should behave in a respectful mature manner. Any vulgar, racist, sexist, homophobic or otherwise objectionable matter is subject to rejection.
Personal attacks or potentially libelous statements against any person (public or private), including previous posters to the article, are not allowed and will be subject to rejection.
Off-topic comments outside the story’s main focus are subject to rejection.
Commercial product promotions, including advertisements or links to other web sites, e-mail addresses or phone numbers, are subject to rejection.
Posting the text of articles or works from other sources in their entirety is prohibited. If you repost quotes from outside material, you must credit the source or your comment may be rejected.
"
Zain wrote on Nov 20, 2007 8:24 AM:
" This woman should face murder charges. This was completely avoidable. " Why would a parent allow their child to talk with a stranger over the internet, who initiated contact with a teen? Child services should take a look at a parent who would allow that. The mother admited that her and her daughter violated myspace terms and had set up a fake account herself. The original article says that Megan was writing some horrible things to the other kids. That made me wonder if some big parts of this story are being left out by the parents. " "
A.Coates wrote on Nov 20, 2007 7:47 AM:
" The murderer has boasted about it, she has no remorse. She is I think delighted by doing what she did. Who knows what she will do to her daughters future friends or boyfriends...Watch out world. I wont post your name here...but everyone online knows your name,phone numbers,husbands name etc...you can't hide. I am sure the daughter had something to do with it too.
I hope you see Megans face everyday for the rest of your life! We can say what we want...but you will have to feel this way for the rest of your life. If it were me...my child I would kick your ever loving well..cuss word.. butt!!!! Also I think your name will become well known news and you need to answer to the public for what you did..at least apologize in public to Megans Family. I think they deserve that. Also maybe you will get that fire foosball table back...they have thoose where you are going. Please forward to Mrs U Know Who That Shall Not Be Named... Sounds like a Harry Potter Quote...The evil one in H.P Books.. Hmmmms Makes you wonder. "
Jae wrote on Nov 20, 2007 12:34 AM:
" I do believe it is cruel for the person that created such a page while using personal information. HOWEVER, if this "13" year old girl really was being monitored by her parents on myspace; 1. She would never have had a myspace to begin with. 2. Being they did allow there "13" year old daughter to have a myspace why did they allow their daughter to accept a friend request from a "stranger" 3. How does it become myspace's fault that an incindent like this happened? Is it not the parents fault after all they do claim that she was monitored very closely? If she really was monitored none of this would have happened. I take it this child was on medication. If she was on medication is she being monitored? and lastly, why would you leave your child home alone knowing that your child is upset over a "fake boy" "a stranger" and she also has several mental illness' that she is suffering from. Which may or may not be getting treated with medication? "
Randy wrote on Nov 20, 2007 12:04 AM:
" To even use the word hoax to describe this sickens me. It is hard enough for kids to get through the nightmare years of Jr. High and High School but to have adults and I use that term so loosely here pull something like that is beyond my understanding. Very little in human behavior surprises me but when I first heard this story even I was stunned to silence. Those "adults" can be thankful that is was not my child that they stole because justice has many faces. I know for myself they would certainly learn the meaning of regret because their very own lives would become a burden to them because a day would not go by when they did not think of what they did and fear what the new day would bring. A motivated father could make there suffering legendary even in hell because death would be much to good and quick for the like of individuals such as those. I certainly hope they are unable to have more kids because their kind is not deserving of being carried on in the gene pool. "
Chanuk wrote on Nov 19, 2007 9:40 PM:
" Well, to the parents of the 'victim' you shouldn't have had your kid on MySpace to begin with, it's unnecessary drama and with your child medicated and having ADHD and such, and the fact that she wasn't 14 and you should be 14 when on myspace. It is partially your fault that your daughter did this (you obviously didn't keep a good enough watch on her if she managed to kill herself while you were home)
To the piece of crap that created 'Josh' What is your problem? How old are you? Over 21 I'd assume, What the f*ck is your problem, do you feel like you're powerful by leading a little girl to feel she has to kill herself? You're lucky that they didn't give out your names. If this isn't a crime, then neither is alienating you so you know how that girl feels. you're a sad exscuse for a human being and we'd all be better off if YOU weren't here. "
rebecca wrote on Nov 19, 2007 6:26 PM:
" What I find increasingly disturbing is the adults in this world who are not only condoning not telling the truth, but are teaching their children how to lie, and that it is acceptable to be deceptive. I was always taught to respect adults. I am not so sure that should be the case anymore. It is no wonder that children are so messed up. "
Timothy Wiebe wrote on Nov 19, 2007 6:17 PM:
" This is a criminal case of abuse of a mentally disabled or vulnerable child. A responsible adult cannot allow contempt directed at a child with mental illness and pain; rather contempt should apply wilfully and expressly at the predatory sociopath who was instrumental in her suicide. Nothing of good measure will ever come from such a person.
Timothy Wiebe, M.D. "
Kate wrote on Nov 19, 2007 5:51 PM:
" That neighbor is psychotic. By her own admission, she invented the account to find out what another kid was saying about her kid???? Oh my God help us all... "
Ted wrote on Nov 19, 2007 10:25 AM:
" What is most disturbing and creepy about the mother who perped the hoax is that she used her knowledge of Megan's depression in order to hurt that child.
One can bet it's not the first time she has done something sociopathic. "
jimbo wrote on Nov 19, 2007 12:07 AM:
" As sad as it is when anyone kills themselves, you can not point the finger at someone else. That goes for both the mothers in this situation.
Yes what the neighbour's mother did was pretty low. Who hasn't played a prank on someone in the past just to upset someone?
Sometimes life really stinks, but it doesn't mean you should kill yourself. "
Barbara wrote on Nov 18, 2007 8:45 PM:
" Child services should actually take a look at the mother who created the fictitious website. With her daughters involvement, she did it in order to manipulate and abuse Megan.
Children need to be raised knowing the difference between right and wrong, not being led into participating in predatory, sociopathic behaviors. "
Concerned Parent in OKC wrote on Nov 18, 2007 11:08 AM:
" I just read about story of Megam Meier on MSN and then found the link to your publication. i am OUTRAGED at these parents actions. no wonder today's children are carrying guns to school and murdering others, with people that have NO conscious raising kids today!! HOW can our youth not fulfill horrible fates????
i personally think that not only should these parents face criminal charges, but be sentenced to some time in a psychiatric facility! what kind of person drives another to suicide knowing that the one they are bullying is already facing difficulties that grown adults have a hard time with??????
i can understand not wanting to publish these families (criminals) names, but WHY NOT? sex offenders names and photos are pubished as well as other child Predators. the community and PUBLIC need to know the identities of these disgusting people so that other children can be protected from them as well as from these parents children. i am sure the apple does not fall far from the tree in this case. hopefully JUSTICE will be served and the family of Megan will find some healing whenever that Justice is served.
Sincerely,
A Parent in OKC "
sick in cali wrote on Nov 18, 2007 11:01 AM:
" This woman should face murder charges. This was completely avoidable. "
Janet wrote on Nov 18, 2007 1:21 AM:
" This woman should have to do something in return for what she did to Megan. At the very least she should have a million hours of community service time. Prison/jail is what she needs, but if that can't happen she needs to be working many many hours working for her community. You can't tell me she can't paint a few hundred buildings, mow lawns for the elderly, pick up trash, etc. To just not have to do anything for this horrific act is an insult to Megan. "
why wrote on Nov 17, 2007 8:20 PM:
" Why would a parent allow their child to talk with a stranger over the internet, who initiated contact with a teen? Child services should take a look at a parent who would allow that.
The mother admited that her and her daughter violated myspace terms and had set up a fake account herself.
The original article says that Megan was writing some horrible things to the other kids. That made me wonder if some big parts of this story are being left out by the parents. "
Roy Lewis wrote on Nov 17, 2007 4:39 PM:
" Steve Plotkin,
I am as disgusted by your decision to protect the perpetrators of this cruel hoax as I am by the hoax itself. As the father of a disabled child I have witnessed the cruelty, indifference, and violence—both physical and mental—that so-called "normals" feel entitled to inflict on my son and others. Between your decision and the district attorney's indifference you have elected to let the adults in this matter off without any consequence at all. You, by your indifference, have become a perpetrator yourself. If the bullies in question cannot be prosecuted, they should be subjected to the full, natural consequences of their behavior, or no one will ever learn. It is a simple matter of justice that their names MUST be published. If you cannot understand that simple fact, you should look in the mirror and repeat 100 times a day "I, Steve Plotkin, killed Megan Meier." "
a mom wrote on Nov 17, 2007 11:55 AM:
" there are laws to punish these people. if her daugher had adhd and a dx, they can and should be prosecuted under federal hate crimes against the disabled.
A Ny teen is being prosecuted under this law.
See the US Doj and civil rights. "
Terry wrote on Nov 17, 2007 8:30 AM:
" Parents are supposed to care for, monitor and keep their children safe. The only people to blame are the parents themselves. Parents nowadays just leave their children to the internet to keep them occupied rather than talk and spend actual time with them. "
JWF wrote on Nov 17, 2007 12:36 AM:
" Mrs. Meir might take comfort that even though there are no laws to punish the animals that did this to her daughter, there are really nasty places in Hell reserved for this kind of people. "
Zoe wrote on Nov 16, 2007 9:53 PM:
" Give out the mother's name. She deserves to be known and registered just like any other child predator. Why give her the chance to do this again? Should she be protected when she destroyed a girls life, when a 17 year old who has sex with his 15 year old girl friend may spend the next 10 years in prison?
(SOURCE: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,278523,00.html)
The people deserve to know her name. Hang the community you're trying to protect, like that women virtually hung Megan. That woman brought this upon herself and deserves to have her name be known for the evil, vindictive, cruel, malicious, and vile female that she is.
What justice is there for Megan and her family, if not even the court of law, or that of public opinion, can be allowed to see the truth of this case? "
mark wrote on Nov 16, 2007 9:37 PM:
" SHOCKING AND REVOLTING STORY OF GROWN ADULTS THAT PREY UPON HELPLESS AND INSECURE CHILDREN THAT ARE ONLY TRYING TO FIND THEIR PLACE IN THIS WORLD. I CAN ONLY HOPE THAT THE ADULTS THAT DID THIS AND SUPPORTED THIS WILL ONE DAY FIND MASSIVE TORMENT AND UNGODLY PAIN THAT WILL HAUNT THEM FOR A THOUSAND YEARS!!!
DISGUSTING!!! "
George wrote on Nov 16, 2007 8:31 PM:
" Another strike against personal responsibility . Can control your kid, blame the neighbors! "
anonymous wrote on Nov 16, 2007 7:35 PM:
" After reading several articles on this I still cannot fathom the fact that an adult, a mother, had a hand in this cruel act. Look at the example she has now set for her own daughter. I hope her dreams and every waking moment are forever haunted by what she has done and even that will still not be enough. "
Free wrote on Nov 16, 2007 6:57 PM:
" "I still don't understand that charges aren't filed. What about child endangerment?"
"Perhaps the Department of Family Services needs to take a look at this family and see if it's safe to leave their daughter in the house."
"This mother... has no respect for the rest of society."
These are snipets from some of the comments on this page. Now, as far as I can see, no charges have been filed due to this being Free Speech.
People young or old are eventually going to say something to you that you consider harmful, or that you do not like, this is a fact of life. Overracting by placing charges on them, or trying to get a FEDERAL, or STATE government involved over a case involving ONE person is pretty damn ridiculous, and definately feels like knee jerk majority rule.
Is it sad that someone lost their life over it? Yes. However, it was still that person's own choice, regardless of that person's age. This is not a "catastrophe on myspace"
I was on the internet when I was younger over 22 years ago, and at that time it barely qualified as such. And things were just as accessable to me then, than the kids have now, if not more so. You did not see me call the national guard. You don't even know them, have some sense. It's not your job to prosecute. "
Kristof wrote on Nov 16, 2007 6:05 PM:
" honestly i think the people should be charged with something.. whatever the heck they try to charge kavorkian with.. because it was an assisted suicide in a way.. but those people are sick and i hope they rot for all eternity in hades "
jennifer wrote on Nov 16, 2007 6:04 PM:
" This is not fair. The adults that were impersonating Josh should have known better than to act so immature and irresponsible to behave in this matter. I agree that this definitly pushed meagan over the edge and they should pay for their actions. I have never responded to an article before but this one had touched me and they were playing with this young girls emotions and head and pretending they were someone that doesnt exist and abusing and mind fucking this young innocent little girl. Poor thing poor family I hope they pay for there actions because they everything was premeditated. "
Kevin wrote on Nov 16, 2007 5:20 PM:
" Grrr: Their actions, however immature, were no worse than the typical actions of most kids who are really that age. Just because it was an adult acting immaturely doesn't make it a criminal offense. What happened is a terrible shame, but there is no person to blame except the young woman who made the worst choice she could've made. "
John Q. Shadoe wrote on Nov 16, 2007 4:54 PM:
" I think it's sad that a newspaper has to publish a second story about this tragedy as a way to pat itself on the back. You have given us no new information besides the comments of your readers. Thank you for sharing your overinflated ego with us. "
Grrr wrote on Nov 16, 2007 3:14 PM:
" Kevin H:
These adults made choices that set in motion a series of events that led to the death of a human being.
Yeah, set was messed up anyway, but that does not excuse them. Their actions were extraordinarily cruel. "
Tim Edwards wrote on Nov 16, 2007 3:06 PM:
" In response to Kevin H, and your point of " I do not feel like it was any different than what kids do to each other every day"
The difference is as an adult, and AS A PARENT, you are supposed to know better than to stoop to playground tactics.
Perhaps you failed to read the original story in full, as the majority of your points would have been answered.
Perhaps one day, you'll be granted with the maturity to understand that the actions taken by the creator of the Josh Evans account were wholly wrong. "
Susan wrote on Nov 16, 2007 1:39 PM:
" You should have still printed their names. Now people are going to try to figure out who they are on their own -- they will find someone to blame, just now there is a possibility that they will find the wrong person to blame. "
Anonymous wrote on Nov 16, 2007 1:38 PM:
" Perhaps, Megan has shot a portal to the afterlife, where she is enjoying delicious cake. An hero to us all, we will never forget. A close friend of mine, Dio, said "Zu Warudo(The world) can be a tough place". It aint what it used to be, with busier lives, multitrack drifting, etc. Whether it's rejection, or a lost ipod, a lot of things you do not want, still happen. How do you dealt with such things? It's too bad she had to end it this way.
Peace out. "
sadchild wrote on Nov 16, 2007 12:16 PM:
" most people are ignoring the fact the girl was medicated. and most medicated people are MORE likely to commit suicide over the smallest events that happen in their life. yes the adults that did this should be accountable the same way they would be if they went up to her face and verbally abused her into suicide but the bigger picture is that anti-depressants are a fraud. these "medicines" are poison and this isn't the first or last time medicated children will kill themselves over something like this. "
Michael wrote on Nov 16, 2007 12:15 PM:
" This was a mean thing to do, but not criminal. People need to stop trying to blame someone for every horrible thing that happens. "
Wayne wrote on Nov 16, 2007 12:02 PM:
" It seems like a lot of you are letting your heart and emotions get in the way of the fact that nothing criminal took place. This is a horrible tragedy and ethically is outrageous. The "adults" showed some of the worst judgement fathomable, and I would like to see them reprimanded as much as anyone else. But the point is that nothing criminal took place. It is impossible to create a law to deal with these issues. It is irresponsible of us to make such a request. For one thing, the more laws that are created due to an isolated event, the more and more likely of an eventual police state in the future. The last thing we need is to give the morally corupt people in power more control over the people who truly make this country great, its citizens! "
Jeff wrote on Nov 16, 2007 12:02 PM:
" You print names of adults who do crimes such as robberty, dui etc. regardless if they have children or not. You should print the names of the mother and worker. Expose them for the scum that they are. "
Neutral wrote on Nov 16, 2007 11:44 AM:
" Have any of you so bent on justice stopped to think of the idea that perhaps Megan herself did something unspeakably mean or cruel to her ex-friend to drive her and her mother to such lengths?!?! Kids are cruel, it is an unfortunate truth, but you reap what you sow. The old adage "don't dish it out if you can't take it" comes to mind. People with low self esteem and depression are often some of the cruelest, so I'd be KEENLY interested in hearing what the other child had to say, because there is probably an equal story of her torment and suffering at Megan's hands, she was just not stupid enough to kill herself, or perhaps had a better support system from her own parents. Clearly although the mother involved acted immaturely, she likely did so out of wanting to see justice done for her own child, which is what Megan's mother is doing.
It is VERY sad and troubling that Megan ended up dead as a result, but really, if she battled depression that long, her parents should have been monitoring her activities more closely and seen the warning signs for this. Certainly, they should not have been letting her talk to some strange boy.
NOTHING illegal has happened, and no one should go to jail. That is simply a preposterous idea. People really need to take more interest in self responsibility. "
Crazy Mom wrote on Nov 16, 2007 11:38 AM:
" The adult mother who created the fake account in order to emotionally harm Meagan, sounds similiar to the mother in Texas who killed a girl so her daughter could be on the cheerleading team.
This mother is so obsessed with her daughter she has no respect for the rest of society.
"
Francine Fraggle Rock wrote on Nov 16, 2007 11:07 AM:
" It's kind of funny what happened to the girl, but the parents should really be charged with harassment at least. Or, even better, sued in civil court and lose all their money and their house and have to sell everything they own and live in a small apartment. "
Derik wrote on Nov 16, 2007 10:43 AM:
" "First off parents are already too over protective and the sad fact is that parents raise their little darlings like they are princes and princesses, disapline seems to be a lost art and when something bad happens the parents immediatly blame someone else instead of their bad parenting. Obviously this child had something going wrong in their life and to have the parents blaming some made up person on the internet is just sad. Did this person on the internet give the girl the rope? Did they tie the knot? Did they force this girl to hang herself? The only people that these parents should be blaming is themselves for being bad parents." "
Brian wrote on Nov 16, 2007 10:23 AM:
" This is ridiculous. The girl killed herself. I feel for the family but lets place the blame where it belongs. Your daughter killed herself due to an illness NOT due to a myspace page. Quit looking for a place to lay the blame. I think it is sick that anyone would consider changing laws to make this prosecutable. The fact is that people have the ability to cover up their identity on the Internet and it is going to stay that way. My question is why was Megan allowed to use a website that si known for being full of pedophiles. Why were the parents not aware of what was going on with their daughter. GET OFF YOUR HIGH HORSE AND QUIT TRYING TO PASS THE BUCK!!
I agree this story is indeed moving, it is moving me to the toilet to vomit. People's unwillingness to accept responsibility and their haste to place blame on anyone but themselves ios sickening. Tina Meier, stop looking to blame others, had you been paying attention to your daughter and her actions and gotten your daughter the help she needed she would very likely be alive today. "
truth wrote on Nov 16, 2007 10:05 AM:
" I'm glad some people with brains are finally being allowed to express themselves. I was always taught that if someone is being mean to you, IGNORE THEM!!! She could have easily, lets see, stayed off Myspace. My favourite part of the article is the mother admitting that they violated the Terms of Agreement for myspace by allowing her 13 yr old child to start an account.
I'll admit, I do give mad props to the parents for watching her on the web, but the article left mass ammounts out. With the parents getting divorced means that something else was there, and people who are "the happiest in their lives" do not take their lives. Were the actions of the "Josh" crew acceptable? No. But Meagan's death was most likely not their goal. If I told someone they were dumb and stupid, and that causes them to kill themselves, that's not my fault. Also, how do we KNOW that Meagan wasn't being mean to that lady daughter? We don't. I also find the mother refusing to talk to the press disturbing.
All in all, this sucks, but seriously, a little common sense would have stopped it. "
Frank wrote on Nov 16, 2007 9:51 AM:
" This is stupid. If kids are really that serious over myspace they need to get a life. Thats the parents fault. "
Ravynia wrote on Nov 16, 2007 9:44 AM:
" It is SO sad Megan is dead and it is SO sad she took her own life. But what was wrong with her relationship with her parents that she was willing to kill herself over a boy she had never met instead of turning to her parents for support?
There are too many laws already, what those people did was WRONG, but suicide is not murder. I say this as a mother, a daughter, and someone who's suffered from depression most of my life.
I can see why you want to blow this out of proportion, but it's just not any different than what any other child would have done to her.
She wasn't old enough to have a MySpace in the first place.
I'm sorry, but I see nothing but parental error here. "
Scott Day wrote on Nov 16, 2007 9:38 AM:
" Cyberstalking and cyberbullying are crimes as are crimes against minors.
Cyberstalking - http://www.usdoj.gov/criminal/cybercrime/cyberstalking.htm
Cyberstalking - http://www.ncvc.org/ncvc/main.aspx?dbName=DocumentViewer&DocumentID=32458
Cyberbullying-http://www.usdoj.gov/ovw/regulations.htm
If McDonald's can be sued successfully for hot coffee it should be fairly simple to prove in court that the neighbor was at the very least bullying the child. I find it hard to believe a reputable lawyer has not taken this case already.
While I have generally have little sympathy for adults who suicie, this concerns a child whose suicide was precipitated by the direct acts of an adult.
I believe there is plenty of blame to go around in this case and the adult should be held accountable.
The child already has been by her own action. "
DJH wrote on Nov 16, 2007 9:16 AM:
" " I really do believe Megan was an hero. "
Someone Who Takes Their Own Life Is No Hero.
The Situation Is Sad But Not Criminal, There Is Plenty Of blame To Go around.
To The Meiers, I'm Sorry For Your Loss.
To The nameless Woman Who Perpitrated This Childish Act, Burn In Hell
"
Al wrote on Nov 16, 2007 8:59 AM:
" The woman who harassed Megan sounds like a sociopath. She'll sleep just fine after what she's done - in her mind, there are no charges, therefore nothing has happened. A nice civil suit is in order here, and then her name will become public. She obviously has no conscience - maybe being shunned by everyone in town for a few decades will teach her a lesson. "
Kevin H wrote on Nov 16, 2007 8:42 AM:
" Although I feel terribly sorry for the Meier family and believe that what the other adult who created "Josh Evans" did was totally immature, I do not feel like it was any different than what kids do to each other every day. If this girl killed herself because some person she never met was "mean" to her, it is not the fault of that person, real or imaginary, and it definitely doesn't approach the level of criminal behavior. The girl obviously had problems that were bigger than Josh Evans. It's a shame that parents are not aware of the signs of suicidal behavior so that incidents like this could be prevented. (Additionally, why weren't they monitoring their daughter's computer activity to know that she was talking to this stranger??) "
Steve wrote on Nov 16, 2007 8:33 AM:
" Megan's mother acted irresponsibly and must accept half of the blame for her daughter's death. Would you let a 13 year old go on a date with an unknown 16 year old? Of course not. So why let her hook up online with one? "
Mike wrote on Nov 16, 2007 8:12 AM:
" You are the sorriest lot I have ever seen. I am deeply sorry for the loss of the child. But that child would have come up with bigger issues in life. What That women did was wrong, but not criminal. Raise your children with a little backbone, help them, monitor them, and this will not happen...I'm tired of reading about Emo kids...
More than irresponsible adults. "
CLB wrote on Nov 16, 2007 8:00 AM:
" I can't believe an adult would be so childish to do something of this nature. She should have reckless homicide charges and child endangerment charges brought against her. She is a sick person that she would encourage her own daughter to do this kind of underhanded, childish behavior. This is sicking and unforgivable that an adult could do this. No wonder our children are coming up with out respect for their elders and no respect for themselves. Look at the example that is being put in front of them by this parent. "
Victoria wrote on Nov 16, 2007 7:53 AM:
" what kind of adult would drive a young girl to doing this to herself? that shows how big she is...!!this is a very sad article and it made me tear up after reading this..!!!
Mrs.Meier your family is in my prayers! "
Jonathan wrote on Nov 16, 2007 7:35 AM:
" It's the parents fault for not giving her the treatment she needed for her depression. People are 'mean' all the time, you need to just get over it. She hurt HERSELF. "
Quoi? wrote on Nov 16, 2007 4:15 AM:
" This is a horrible, sad, sad thing. But what are we going to change the law to say? No one on the Internet may talk to someone else? This is an unfortunate series of events that grew from several bad decisions along a very long chain of decisions. Please, someone tell me how the "ADULTS" involved in this knew this girl would take her own life. Yes, they did something stupid, but what sort of laws can we create to prevent stupidity? There's no way to legislate that sort of thing unless we can actually enter every single person's though process. Truly, the only thing we can do to avoid this sort of tragedy is to teach people to think critically before they act, and even then, there is no guarantee. "
Brandon wrote on Nov 16, 2007 3:59 AM:
" this girl took her own life and you all blame some idiot for it?
that is just stupid, this girl took her own life, her fault not anyone elses. "
Marge Harris wrote on Nov 16, 2007 3:50 AM:
" I can't for the life of me understand why these adults aren't being charged with on-line stalking & abuse of Megan. To coldly conceive of a "Josh" to dupe this child into believing in an on-line romance, then follow-up with rejecting and taunting her is sick - at best, and criminal at worst. This woman played mind games with a child she knew suffered with depression. She might as well have given the girl pills or a razor. Her vile actions created that noose. She should be held as accountable as any other child predator - because that's what she did she lured a depressed, lonely young girl into believing someone cared - then she pulled the rug out from under Megan. I know money is cold comfort for those that have lost Megan, but her parents should sue the pants off the adults involved. "
Reason, go get some wrote on Nov 16, 2007 3:25 AM:
" So what you want to do is create a law that protects your childrens feelings...so basically a boyfriend and girlfriend can never break up, friends can't get angry at eachother, and sports which result in a winning team and a losing team are forbidden. Whats wrong with you? Are you people crazy? Kids need to get outside and live life, the good and the bad. They don't need to live in a bubble. Yeah, this lady is definetly a bad neighbor, but a criminal? I frequent MySpace and have recieved a considerable amount of bogus messages, but I learned my lessons as a kid, and not by being shelters. My parents let me feel the good AND the bad, and now I have something called common sense and the ability to reason. Stop blaming everyone and their uncles for your children's problems and start teaching your kids how to think for themselves. I agree that this was a tragic loss for a family out there, but the problem wasnt a bad neighbor, it was and instability that this girl never came to terms with. "
Joe wrote on Nov 16, 2007 2:59 AM:
" Wow...call out the lynch mob. As sad as this is..ultimately she is responsible for taking her own life. The kid/adult/parent/whoever that drives an emotionally unstable person over the edge is a mean person, but suicide only has one aggressor. I applaud this paper for not releasing the names...lest we have vigilante justice. And no there aught not be a law. "
Genji Works wrote on Nov 16, 2007 1:28 AM:
" I hate it when people go down on others. Sure the lady who made the bogus MySpace was at the start doing to monitor her kids. But, thousands of other people are doing the same.
Unless the lady told Megan to commit suicide, the only person at fault here is the victim and her parents.
The mom was at fault because she adamantly claims to be strict about the use of a computer, yet forgot to check it knowing her daughter has issues. The kid is at fault for disobeying her mother...
Of course the authorities did nothing! When is making fun of someone a crime... regardless whether they use a bogus profile or not. My internet identity is bogus.
Calling that lady a criminal is like calling every shock jock, comedian, comedy host, editors, and tabloids a criminal... because what they said was mean... and might induce a suicide. -.-
The victims mom was an idiot. What made her think that an online community was a good idea to a kid with that many problems? "
Denizen wrote on Nov 16, 2007 1:10 AM:
" I do not want to degrade this tragedy into anything less than what it is, and I offer my sincere condolences to Megan Meier's family.
But unfortunately, this sort of thing is a serious issue that exists everywhere on the web and I can't help but be reminded of an essential fact, and it's one that some do not realize: the internet is a place where people abuse their anonymity constantly. That's not to say that the anonymous nature of it is an entirely bad thing since many people can get a second lease on a social life in such a place including people like Megan Meier, as well as myself. Unfortunately, anonymity abusers can cause such tragedies to happen with emotionally unstable people, and it seems to happen relatively often.
I honestly hope that anybody else who utilizes the internet for benign and honest social purposes never comes to such an end by what us more "hardcore" internet denizens call "trolls". But in being a benign user myself, I realize that socializing on the web is often like reading a personal ad in the newspaper and that I need to take internet-based relations with a grain of salt: many internet users are not what they initially seem to be. There are those who lie about their gender, physique, interests, and some even fake entire personalities and personal histories for kicks. It would be very wise for parents to remind their internet-using children of this regularly. "
Russ wrote on Nov 16, 2007 12:57 AM:
" While I feel for the family, I can't help but wonder at what point personal accountability comes into play. It was a cruel prank, but I don't think that any moral barriers were crossed beyond that point. The only person at real legal fault was the poor girl that decided to do the unthinkable. Really, I am sorry for the loss, But any legal liabililty to those that orcastrated the prank would be wrong, I think. "
Mel Griego, Amarillo, TX wrote on Nov 16, 2007 12:00 AM:
" Note to the mother down the block whom did this..when you reach them pearly gates someday...he's going to ask you why...may you never sleep another wink..you need to go to Mrs Meier and make it right with her today. "
Guy wrote on Nov 15, 2007 11:19 PM:
" I suppose we should make laws until the government controls everything?
If the girl had psychiatric problems, she should have been treated. You cannot shield EVERYTHING, and your job as a parent should be to try your best to prepare them to battle and defend themselves against people like this immature unnamed parent.
You people are attacking the unnamed parent, but in truth, all she did was pretend to be someone on the internet.
If someone approached you on the street, with a mask on, whom you've never met before, would you engage them in conversation that was revelatory? NO! So then why was this child allowed to have (what I assume were) extensive conversations with an anonymous person? Especially considering she was clinically depressed?
If there is negligence to be assigned, it's to the effect of the child not getting the proper attention she needs.
Let's be reasonable, laws don't prevent, or even deter, crime to some magical extent that would prevent this kind of behavior. Proper education will.
TEACH your children. Have a computer in a common house area, and insist that ALL communications be privy to inspection at your will. If they can't agree to that, then they simply cannot access the internet. Be tough. Don't let the law do your work for you. "
Alex wrote on Nov 15, 2007 11:13 PM:
" What evil neighbours. Intentional invocation of emotional distress in a minor? There are some cruel people in this world.
Where were the victim's parents in all of this? When I was a kid, the computer was in a public area of the house, where my parents could monitor my computer usage. Parents with a mentally ill child should be doubly aware of her activities.
I do believe there's not so much criminal culpability to go around here. For those who want the laws changed, what would you suggest? We go after every person who is unkind in their online discourse? "
Equality Dan wrote on Nov 15, 2007 11:11 PM:
" so would this crime be any less severe if perhaps it was verbal assault that made her commit suicide? because i haven't heard of many cases where a person has been put away for a significant amount of time for that Also i know this is tragic but
"The realization this can actually happen is truly frightening. THANK YOU for printing it" - R. W. Bross
"
suicide happens whether it had a relation to myspace or not dosent increase or decrease its relevance
its a tragic event non the less but i think if allot of the commenter's here think this person should be prosecuted severely for what she did then anyone else that attributed to a suicided should be held responsible "
Chad wrote on Nov 15, 2007 11:06 PM:
" I think a very important fact is being looked over. This young girl committed suicide over a young man SHE HAD NEVER EVEN MET. This girl had SEVERE problems and her FRIENDS and FAMILY are RESPONSIBLE for helping her. Regardless of what ANYONE could ever say to this girl, she should have known better. This is another great case of people BYPASSING real RESPONSIBILITY of taking care of their children and EDUCATING them about the internet. "
Mary wrote on Nov 15, 2007 10:51 PM:
" Hooray for FOX NEWS!!!! It did hit NATIONAL NEWS, What a HORRIBLE new article to read and hear about these MONSTERS. With the technology of today news travels fast. I had a call from STK about it and then saw it on FOX NEWS. I pray that NANCY GRACE gets this issue and the persons involved in this have to move out of Dardenne Prarie. I don't want them here in FLORIDA either. They need to have to move to the most isolated place on earth. I do feel that some one at some point will leak the name--I can't wait for that to happened!!!!!
LET THE FATHER PRESS CHARGES about the table. THAT will let the news out to who these people are hopefully.
What HORRIBLE PEOPLE YOU ARE. I AM SURE YOU ARE READING ALL THESE COMMENTS. UNLESS YOU HAVE NO BRAINS YOU HAVE TO BE HAVING SLEEPLESS NIGHTS__HOPEFULLY FOREVER!!! "
Russ wrote on Nov 15, 2007 10:35 PM:
" I hear all you parents shaming law enforcement and blaming everyone else... How about the mom in this situation. All you bored out of your mind parents seriously have nothing better to do than live vicariously through your children rather than raising your own kids. Seriously makes me sick! I can't believe a parent would actually get involved in the gossip instead of actually teaching your kid how to deal with the gossip. disgusting. "
JM wrote on Nov 15, 2007 10:33 PM:
" Think about the other neighbors, holding back the name has the potential to have public attention directed against the wrong person. "
Granitestater wrote on Nov 15, 2007 10:31 PM:
" Plenty of child predators are busted just for using the computer to 'talk' to children. What's different about this incident? An adult commiting a deliberate and malicious act? That's gotta be a crime! "
drgonzo wrote on Nov 15, 2007 8:05 PM:
" Offallen res
You are definately right as far as the prosecuting attorney.
Check out this article to see how backward his priorities are.
http://search.riverfronttimes.com/2007-10-17/news/river-rage/
The case with Megan is a travesty but some people are pure evil. Everybody needs to stay on their toes. "
Jenny wrote on Nov 15, 2007 7:56 PM:
" As a prosecutor (not in St. Charles), I would just like to point out that no criminal state law was broken by the actions of "woman." While her behavior is reprehensible and her complete lack of parenting skills is astonishing, the St. Charles County prosecutor is not to blame. Keep your attention focused on the problem: The mother who is so self-obsorbed and immature, that she actually thought it was a good idea to become involved in teenage games. Even worse, she seems not to take any responsibility for her role in the death of this young woman. She should be sued in civil court for her involvement in this incident. If you think this should be a crime, as I do, contact your state legislature and tell him or her. Don't blame those who have no control over the situation. "
Janis wrote on Nov 15, 2007 4:58 PM:
" I read this artical yesterday and I am sickened by the adult neighbor who faked the 'Josh' mySpace account. I still cannot get over the fact that she did this to a child. To bad there is no medication to take that would make a person feel the pain that another person is going through. "
Chris wrote on Nov 15, 2007 3:01 PM:
" Most of our laws have been created because the act we now regard as criminal was considered to be indecent and the result of poor judgment. The Golden Rule is great and I wish everyone followed it, but that just isn't reality. The funny thing is, during the age in which the Golden Rule originated people that violated it were punished in very brutal ways. It’s ironic that some now use it to justify why we should tolerate people that treat others poorly. Everything can’t be solved with good intentions and hope. Sometimes you need to take action. "
Ofallonres wrote on Nov 15, 2007 1:14 PM:
" SHAME on law enforcement for turning a blind eye to this!
The St.Charles County prosecutor is gutless and bloodless. Us folks from the area should let him know we will remember this at election time. That will get his attention.
"
Chris, St. Louis County wrote on Nov 15, 2007 12:31 PM:
" This is Thursday Nov 15 and I still cannot stop thinking about Megan and her family.
That our "laws" seem to protect the perpetrator and not the victim is what makes most of us skeptical and distrustful of our legal system. I absolutely COULD NOT BELIEVE that the other family had the audacity to file a police report regarding the destroyed foosball table, yet the family who lost their daughter seems to have no legal recourse.
These were ADULTS behind this scheme! That they did not feel "as guilty" about their actions (because they 'believe' Megal had tried to commit suicide before) only serves as proof to me that the ADULTS involved in this are EVIL.
In the words of the final message to Megan, the world WOULD be better off without people with such cruel intentions.
"
Ray in O'Fallon wrote on Nov 15, 2007 11:55 AM:
" My deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Megan. Things like this shouldn't happen but they do. However, I don't see any way that legislation of any kind is going to solve the problem.
Being a bully and mean spirited is not limited to our young people, in fact, it's learned from their "role models". We need to start at home teaching our children the Golden Rule. The mother who perpetuated the whole thing can now live with what she's done and pray that HER daughter doesn't fall victim to a similar prank.
While we can't imagine life without internet, this type of problem is only the tip of the iceberg. You could surf MySpace and find this type of communication all day long.
Behaviors like this won't be fixed with legislation and when we label lack of decency towards others and poor judgment as crimal behavior where will we go with all of the offenders? "
Carol T. wrote on Nov 15, 2007 11:36 AM:
" A very sad story. How could someone do that to this young girl? The cruelty of these neighbors is just unbelievable. "
Crazy Mom wrote on Nov 15, 2007 11:36 AM:
"
The adult mother who created the fake account in order to emotionally harm Meagan, sounds similiar to the mother in Texas who killed a girl so her daughter could be on the cheerleading team.
This mother is so obsessed with her daughter she has no respect for the rest of society.
"
Chris wrote on Nov 15, 2007 10:09 AM:
" People’s lives were changed forever. I can't imagine how they are feeling; I don’t even want to try. The simple fact is; their pain has been caused by the actions of other individuals. Maybe not directly, but they were a necessary contributing factor. To say otherwise is just hardnosed lawyer talk. Laws govern our society but we as citizens govern our laws. Something needs to be done for the future. But,that being said,there is no law in place at this time and the Meier family is not going to get the justice that they deserve. The only thing we can do at this point is demand that the names of these vile people be released. They may be able to escape government prosecution but in most cases the public persecution surrounding despicable crimes are more difficult to deal with anyhow. Make them accountable. Anonymity should be awarded to victims, not to people who torment the helpless. "
Jane wrote on Nov 15, 2007 9:40 AM:
" When I heard of this incident it made me sick to my stomach. While I do not live in the area my concern is for other children who do live in the area and may come in contact with these very sick people. I hope that at the very least these "adults" are referred to the Missouri version of child protective services. Their lack of even basic common sense makes me fear for the safety of children in their care. "
Connie wrote on Nov 15, 2007 9:28 AM:
" This is about the saddest story, I have ever read. I have a 13 year old son and I try to protect as much as possible while he is on the computer. But the woman who created this pain, needs to be punished.
My sypmathies and prayers go out to the Meier family.
"
Tracy-St. Charles wrote on Nov 15, 2007 8:03 AM:
" As a mother of a teenage daughter who lives and breathes to be on the computer, I was sick to my stomach when I read this article. I made not only my 15 year old but my 11 year old daughter read the article as well. While I cannot truly understand the reasoning behind why we are not able to print the name of the woman who did this, I hope she wakes up every morning with an ache in her stomach knowing that she put a beautiful girl into the grave for no other reason than for her own immaturity. She is a disgusting human being. Where is Division of Family Services when you need them. And to think....she and her husband had the audacity to press charges against a greiving dad because of a "lawn job"....she should thank god that it wasn't worse. If it would have been my daughter, I would be sitting in a jail cell right now, and she certainly wouldn't be getting up every morning and having breakfast and laughs with her family. My thoughts and prayers are with Tina and the rest of her family. "
james wrote on Nov 15, 2007 7:40 AM:
" It sounds like a open and shut case of wrongful death and the parents should find an attorney to pursue this matter. People may be found not guilty in a manslaughter case but in situation like this I believe they would win any award that was due to them. The evil of all is brought out by the wickedness of others "
lizy wrote on Nov 15, 2007 1:54 AM:
" When i read this article sunday it was at first very sad and then when i heard it was a parent behind the fake profile it made me sick. I looked to my mom and dad and as i read them the story i started crying. Anyone who could actually do something like that even if its too another adult is just unreal. then when the mother behind the fake profile said she did not feel that bad about her dying after she heard the girl had tried to commit suicide before. Well just for that she should be charged with something. Thank you so much for printing this article. Not only did it open my eyes but i tell everyone i can about the story so that they can be aware of how truelly messed up todays society is. "
Matt- O'Fallon, MO wrote on Nov 14, 2007 10:16 PM:
" I live in the O'Fallon, MO I am ashamed that I have nieghbors like this in my community.The mother and 18 year old daughter are unquestionably front and center responsible for Megans death. This (unnamed) mother molested the sole of this troubled teen for folly and internet enjoyment. There may be no cyber crime commited but it would be my hunch Maegan would still be alive had this prank not have been executed. This family that perpitrated this prank is just EVIL...........Please move....... "
Ryan wrote on Nov 14, 2007 9:36 PM:
" I heard about this story the other day from a friend, and then read it today here online. It is of course a horrible tragedy. I don't understand why more kids these days are commiting suicide, or are killing others. As a teen ten years ago, there were never any problems like this it seemed.What is the issue nowadays? Is it the internet? Is it the media and all the half naked models? There have always been pranks. There have been pranks on me where people have pretended to be friends, and then around the cool people, they said horrible things to me. I felt horrible, but never thought about killing myself. Is it that lack of religion in families? Church attendance does seem to be down more than it used to. Is that because of all the religious figures having relations with young people? I just don't understand why kids are doing this. Maybe families are not the way they should be, or used to be. Maybe because there are more and more divorces. I am rambling. But it does show there are many reasons we can blame. It wasn't just the parents who did this, but was other factors. I am not defending these parents AT ALL. But there are other problems that seem to be causing all these problems in the world. Also, I dont want to know these peoples names. I don't care. It doesn't matter. They know what they did. "
Mick wrote on Nov 14, 2007 8:48 PM:
" I understand that Mr. Meier has been charged with some minor offense against the "people" if they can be called that, that did this to his daughter.
He should ask for a jury trial, and not one decent person would do other than aquit him.
Mick "
Chuck wrote on Nov 14, 2007 8:13 PM:
" As a computer technician I always try to make parents aware of what their kids do on the computer when I am called to work on their pc and the technolgy of the internet is like allowing your kids to travel around the world alone, without any laws on the internet to protect them is ridiculous and to let adults exploit this technolgy on innocent children is just outrageous, even I as a technician by law have to report suspicous activity, this case should not be any different the result is a child was taken advantage of by an adult and the need for technology laws to be created. "
Ang wrote on Nov 14, 2007 6:07 PM:
" When i heard this story on the radio i was sickenen. I don't understand how adults can show children that kind of behavior. I am only 19 years old and my friends and I played did pranks on each other but nothing like that. What those people did wasn't a prank! Those people are sick in the head!! I don't care what they are saying now, they're just trying to cover their butt. They knew what they were doing when it was happening. I think something should be done!! If something isn't done other people are going to think it is okay to harass little kids. My prayers go out to Meirer family "
Alice Dames, Richmond Heights wrote on Nov 14, 2007 5:56 PM:
" When we look at why some children are so mean to one another, often we need to look no further than their parents. Mean-spirited, selfish parents beget the same in their children. There's no defense ANY parent can make for creating a despicable web page of this kind. To engage in a cyber relationship with a vulnerable teen, like Megan, and then to emotionally taunt her is beyond defense. How can these people live with themselves!!! "
SarahW wrote on Nov 14, 2007 5:02 PM:
" The parents have the option of persuing a formal court proceding that would assess guilt and penalty of the bad actors here. They should. No new laws are needed, because legal remedies already exist. "
Jody Brown, St. Louis wrote on Nov 14, 2007 4:52 PM:
" I have several questions to the parent who pretended to be Josh Evans. First, what made you become such a monster that you preyed on an innocent young person, one you knew was vulnerable - under the guise that you were doing it to see what Megan might be saying about your daughter and when you found out Megan wasn't saying anything why did you continue? Second, when you saw the ambulance leaving the Meier home, why didn't you go to the family and offer some comfort? Instead you called another girl to tell her to keep quiet about the MySpace acct because you knew then something bad happened and you played a part. Second, have you sought some sort of professional help for yourself because it is quite apparent that you need counseling and if you haven't you should probably seek counseling now because the guilt of what your actions caused has got to be eating you up inside and if it isn't then my first question has already been answered - you are a MONSTER. What is really frightenting is that you have a teenage daughter who will think this is appropriate behavior because you were only looking out for her. If that makes you and your daughter sleep better at night good for you because there is the Meier Family will never know a good nights sleep again. And to Tina, you need not feel guilty for senseless actions of another. "
Jill M Wilson wrote on Nov 14, 2007 4:39 PM:
" Tina Meier. What courage you have to tell your story-I admire you. You are right, the laws need to be changed. That horrible mother,daughter and 18 year-old should be held accountable for her death. They preyed on a person with emotional problems. This should be a judicial issue and I feel justice will be served. I'm so sorry for your loss. Megan's Law is an excellent name, I'll vote YES on it. "
Sue Them wrote on Nov 14, 2007 4:36 PM:
" Why aren't the Meiers filing an Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress suit against this family.
Let's see what a jury in a civil suit thinks of their actions. "
Sensible Mike wrote on Nov 14, 2007 4:35 PM:
" Although the behavior of the unamed parents is abhorrent, especially if they were involved in this adolescent ruse, keep in mind that they did not commit a crime. They did not physically put that girl's neck in the noose. Little can be done now other than to ostracise them publicly. Legislation with teeth may or may not have prevented this tragedy. Parents simply have to monitor kids on PCs like hawks. "
Michele Kuenz wrote on Nov 14, 2007 4:31 PM:
" Somebody please explain to me why this is not considered a "hate" crime, and why the name of the irresponsible mother who created this terrible situation cannot be printed. I understand why the name of her daughter should not be, but the mother should suffer the recriminations of the public eye for being so cruel. I wonder how she would feel if it had been her daughter that had committed suicide. I, myself, having a daughter will pray for both of these families. "
Kevin Conley wrote on Nov 14, 2007 4:07 PM:
" This story needs to be sent to the national media so they can put the worldwide spotlight on it. The adults involved in this need to face criminal charges. This is pure and simple child abuse. If this happened to one of my little girls, I would be in prison right now from taking matters into my own hands. If these people aren't going to face criminal charges, they need to at least face "community" outrage over their actions. "
Angry wrote on Nov 14, 2007 4:02 PM:
" To the parents who did this to Megan, you're monsters. You are not welcome in our community. Leave now. You can't be trusted around our children. Are you fit to keep your own kids? "
AW wrote on Nov 14, 2007 3:59 PM:
" Again, as others, reading this story has truly disgusted me and made me sick to even think that two grown adults, parents at that, would do something so terrible. I thought parents were supposed to be role models, in this case they are everything but. This story will eventually get out to everyone and the names of these people will eventually be revealed. Heres my question, what are they going to do when the kids at school make fun of their child for what they have done? "
Becky wrote on Nov 14, 2007 2:37 PM:
" You say that the Journal did not name the woman because the newspaper did not want to identify her daughter.
I have never heard of a newspaper not naming any other criminal, suspect, or figure in a potential civil suit out of consideration for the feelings of their children. "
j3rkb0i wrote on Nov 14, 2007 2:01 PM:
" I truly and sincerely wish nothing but the harshest of emotional, spiritual, and financial hardship on the wildly immature and shortsighted woman who had the gall to do this to a child. She is the epitome of what is wrong with modern society and does not deserve to be considered part of our civilized world. May misfortune, shame, and regret haunt her for the rest of her life. And even that will never be enough. Can you imagine what kind of monster her own offspring will grow to be with that kind of "parenting"??? Utterly ridiculous!!! "
Dan wrote on Nov 14, 2007 1:59 PM:
" It would seem to me that if the names of sexual offenders are publicized as a public safety issue, an adult with such little judgement as the unnamed adult in this story should be named, too. If anyone is a danger to their neighbors, it's her. What exactly are you protecting her from? The shame she ought to feel? The outrage of her neighbors? All you're doing is allowing her to avoid taking responsibility for her own actions. The reactions of her neighbors are entirely her responsibility as well. Shame on you. "
Another Parent wrote on Nov 14, 2007 1:17 PM:
" I am completely appalled that an adult, a "mother" no less, would purposely hurt a child that, by admission, knew that Megan suffered from depression and low self-esteem. I am having trouble comprehending how anyone could go out of their way to hurt a child, much less someone that she knew. Perhaps the Department of Family Services needs to take a look at this family and see if it is safe to leave their daughter in the house. It seems like there is a lot of mental unstability there. I would love to know what the father felt about his wife's behavior and if he condoned it! How humiliating it must be for their daughter to have to go to school and face her classmates when they know exactly what happened. "
K wrote on Nov 14, 2007 12:37 PM:
" I still don't understand that charges aren't filed. What about child endangerment? Parents are held responsible everyday for the actions of their children. Now it is time to hold the parent and their child responsible for contributing to the death of another. As a society free speech has limits, if you don't think so try saying the word "bomb" at Lambert someday. "
Lisa wrote on Nov 14, 2007 12:23 PM:
" I was saddened as well to hear of Megan's death... How very sad and useless. I am saddened by how many people think it is the "internet" causing so many problems when, in fact, this particular incident was caused by adults. Now THAT is really pathetic. The adults should be utterly ashamed with themselves. I do not know how they can look in the mirror every day. Our youth look to adults to help them, teach them, direct and guide them. And what have these folk done but let Megan and youths everywhere down with their behavior. I am utterly sick to my stomach over Megan's short life. Perhaps that was her purpose in our lives - to be the teacher to some full grown adults... Who MUST take responsibility and pay (what cost?! An admission of the consequences of their behavior?) for what they've done! "
Parent wrote on Nov 14, 2007 11:27 AM:
" The laws need to change! Maybe their could be a new Meagans law. One that would hold adults such as the unnamed parent responsible for their actions. I wish I could be on the jury if this was part of a civil trial. "
Kris wrote on Nov 14, 2007 11:14 AM:
" I take solace in the fact that this story is powerful enough to elicit so many comments, the national media will pick it up, and they won't think twice about naming the parent who was immature, deceitful, and worst of all, not showing the least sign of remorse. Justice will come either in the court of public opinion or in the court of law.
My deepest sympathy goes out to Megan's family. "
Jen wrote on Nov 14, 2007 11:06 AM:
" It is a shame, that at this day and age, we are not held accountable for our own actions. That poor girl was degrated and humiliated just for the joy of an adult that wanted to live her waisted life through her daughters. I wish the Meier family all the luck in the world getting, what they truly deserve, justice. "
Tiffany wrote on Nov 14, 2007 10:48 AM:
" It is sad that while people in the inner city is struggling with trying to raise their children in the midst of gangs and other violence a mother in the suburbs has nothing better to do than to get harass a 13 year old girl.
Saint Louis "
DeaShea wrote on Nov 14, 2007 10:08 AM:
" I have shared this article with my family, coworkers and friends.This could happen to any of are children. I, has an adult realize how cruel children can be but for a adult to be so heartless is just staggering. Then to think she let two young people think this was okay to do. There needs to be a law to hold people accountable for there actions.
Kind words bring life, but cruel words crush your spirit.
Proverbs chapter 15 "
Abby wrote on Nov 14, 2007 9:46 AM:
" I still believe that you should release the names of these people. I understand the desire to protect this woman's daughter, but it appears that the daughter was in on the joke as well. I would want to know what family this is so I would be able to keep my children from associating with them. "
Bren wrote on Nov 14, 2007 9:45 AM:
" Why in the world would these people not be named? That is totally ridiculous. The mother and the 18 year old girl should be named!!!!!!! My goodness an innocent child committed suicide, a once thriving happy family has been torn apart by guilt and grief because of one stupid mother who can't keep her nose out of her daughters business? I wonder who the next Victim will be, because with a mother like that, this won't be the first and it won't be the last! PARENTS BEWARE! There is a Psycho on the loose!We need to all come together and bring this full force to the media everywhere so that justice will be served. Tina and Ron deserve justice! God bless both of you. Please don't throw away everything that you had, God can heal this marriage! Don't let that crazy Psycho destroy you, too!!!!!! "
O'fallon Poster wrote on Nov 14, 2007 9:24 AM:
" I wish you would publish the name of this woman. Names of sexual predators are made public; so should the names of those who prey on the young and vulnerable in other dangerous ways. We have the right to know about the monsters living among us. "
Hugh wrote on Nov 14, 2007 9:18 AM:
" I was saddened for the family of the young girl, but I can't understand all of these people crying out that there should be a law to make it illegal to hurt a childs feelings. I think socially ostracizing these people is sufficient punishment, because honestly and objectively, they truly cannot be held responsible for the girl's actions. I would be more inclined to place blame on whomever prescribed a 14 year-old mind-altering drugs. "
Emily wrote on Nov 14, 2007 8:26 AM:
" I think it is interesting that the Journal took more of an interest in protecting a young girl than her own parents did with their behavior. "
SB wrote on Nov 14, 2007 8:16 AM:
" I think the woman/mother should be held accountable for aggravating an already knowingly troubled girl into committing suicide. If there is not a law in place then there should be immediately. What kind of mother is she? Did she not think for a moment that could be her daughter on the receiving end of that malicious prank? No wonder her daughter is like she is, apples don't fall far from the tree! God Bless Megan's family, especially her mother. "
D wrote on Nov 14, 2007 7:45 AM:
" I think the two most appalling things about this story are the fact that this was an adult AND the fact that the adult said they didn't feel like it was there fault because she attempted suicide before. Are you kidding me??? The karma she brings to herself will be incredible. Isn't it interesting that she said to the child "Nobody likes you". It appears she may be getting that right back. "
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andrea wrote on Sep 15, 2008 6:43 PM: