MMD Newswire: Press Release News Wire

SAN FRANCISCO (MMD Newswire) March 19, 2012 -- Cyber safety expert Shawn Edgington sees hope in the verdict of Dharun Ravi, the former Rutgers University student, convicted Friday of electronically spying on his gay roommate, who later committed suicide. Edgington says, "I commend the jury for seeing through Ravi's defense that he only activated the webcam to keep an eye on his belongings. The verdict is an important one, as it sets precedence for those who target others with intent to humiliate, intimidate and harm using technology to amplify the impact to a degree that is unbearable to victims." Edgington adds. "This is another example of cyberbullying, a problem that effects millions of young people each year, and, as in the case of Ravi's target, Tyler Clemente, can have deadly consequences."

The bestselling author is spreading the anti-bully message, along with her daughter Nicole, who was a victim of cyberbullying, through the Great American NO BULL Challenge.

About the Great American NO BULL Challenge:

The NO BULL Challenge is the largest, youth-led national campaign and video contest in America that tackles cyberbullying at the teen level. We're using the power of social media, music and the magic of filmmaking to inspire 25 million middle and high school students every year to write and direct their own 2-5 minute films that speaks to the widespread epidemic of cyberbullying. The Teen Video Awards black-tie gala will celebrate the culmination of the 3-month video contest with a purpose to promote awareness, courage and acceptance for all.

Top teen filmmakers from around the country will be our quests at the pre-show VIP Reception and The Teen Video Awards red carpet event on July 21, 2012 at the Masonic Center in San Francisco, to celebrate the importance of standing up and making a difference.