Investigations launched after female high school students targeted on social media in Camrose

Police and school officials in Camrose are investigating social media posts directed at female students.

Social media behaviour targeting female students at an Edmonton-area high school has prompted investigations by both the school and local police.

The social media content “includes deeply concerning and harmful language,” read statements put out by both the Battle River School Division – of which Camrose Composite High School is a member – and Camrose Police Service (CPS) on Wednesday.

Neither said how many students were affected, nor who is being investigated.

“Based on the information gathered to date, there is no indication that the individuals involved in the group chat were planning to carry out physical harm toward the female students listed in the messages at the time they were exchanged, nor has any information been identified to suggest an ongoing or current risk of physical violence,” CPS said in the statement posted to its website.

“While the language used, including references to the female students listed, is serious and concerning, the investigation continues to carefully assess all available information to ensure an accurate understanding of the situation.”

Officials said interventions and supports were being provided to “all affected parties.”

The school division said it would not be commenting on the incident further.

Students rally outside high school

Students, parents and other community members rallied outside the school, for the second day in a row Thursday, to draw attention to the issue.

Several students told CTV News Edmonton the online posts have made them feel uncomfortable at school.

“I feel unsafe. God knows how many other girls here feel unsafe going and coming to school each and every single day,” said Grade 12 student Keyeda Best. “It’s disgusting.”

About 50 students chanted and held signs with messages including, “Protecting rape culture normalizes rape” and “We believe you.”

Both the school division and police said they could not share details of the posts.

Camrose is located 90 kilometres southeast of Edmonton.