In a shocking incident of racial online bullying, six juveniles from Southwick, Massachusetts, have been charged with engaging in a Snapchat discussion filled with "heinous" language and threats of violence towards people of color. The incident, labeled as "hateful and racist" by Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni, involved derogatory comments, racial slurs, and even a mock slave auction targeting two specific individuals.

The disturbing incident took place between February 8 and 9, with Gulluni becoming aware of it on February 15. Acting swiftly, he immediately enlisted the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit to investigate the matter. Following a thorough investigation, the district attorney authorized the pursuit of criminal charges against all six juveniles involved.

As per the charges, all six individuals are facing counts of threat to commit a crime. Additionally, two of the juveniles are facing charges of interference with civil rights, while one of them is also charged with witness interference. Gulluni condemned the behavior, stating, "Hatred and racism have no place in this community," and pledged to ensure that justice is served.

Gulluni, having met personally with the victims and their families, emphasized that such vile, cruel, and contemptible behavior will not be tolerated. He expressed his office's commitment to appropriately punishing those responsible for displaying such hatred, cruelty, and engaging in chargeable criminal conduct.

The chat in question was created by a group of 8th-grade students from Southwick Regional School, according to Gulluni. The discussion within the chat involved hateful and racist comments, including threats of violence towards people of color, racial slurs, derogatory pictures and videos, as well as the disturbing act of a mock slave auction targeting specific individuals.

Upon the discovery of the chat on February 9, the school authorities were promptly notified. Following state law guidelines, several students involved, including the six charged individuals, were immediately suspended as an emergency removal on February 12. Three days later, further disciplinary action was taken, including extended suspensions of 25 and 45 days.

In light of this troubling incident, the district attorney has initiated measures to prevent future harm, encourage empathy, and strengthen the community against hate. These measures include implementing a curriculum focused on hate and bullying in the Southwick school community, as well as collaborating with the attorney general's office to develop a program aimed at addressing and remedying bigotry, racism, and bullying in schools.

This incident serves as a stark reminder that hate and racism persist, even in our educational institutions. It is crucial for authorities, schools, and communities to come together to condemn such behavior and work towards creating safe and inclusive environments for all students.