Quote:
Originally Posted by Jon Stratis
I agree that some situations do call for the police, but before we jump the gun we should recognize that each incident is different and unique, and should be handled on a case by case basis. Someone giving out "free hugs" that last a little too long for comfort is a lot different from someone inappropriately briefly groping someone else, which is a lot different from some other forms of assault/abuse we can imagine. Before jumping straight to the police, report it to the appropriate event personnel, and allow them to handle it. They can talk with the victim, the perpetrator, and the lead mentor for the team (hopefully separately so the victims identity can be protected) and potentially reach a solution that is both fair to the victim and appropriately harsh to the perpetrator.
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Truth - this thread has evolved to include reports of things that are not criminal. But it is important for a trained individual, a person with real authority, to make this decision (is it criminal behavior or not). Multiple well-meaning mentors, teachers and event volunteers will make different decisions. A professional law enforcement officer can make a decision about the complaint and let it be handled internally (by the event or team reps) or make it a criminal matter.
Think of the liabilities - does a typical volunteer, mentor or teacher want to be responsible for the future actions of a person they choose to reprimand or warn rather than refer to a law enforcement officer?
I had no idea things had gotten this bad (and initially advocated a nuanced approach) but I believe every report from Karthik. Harassment at FIRST events now requires an over-reaction. FIRST must get on the other side of this issue, not leave it short. (forgive the golf analogy)