Threatening text messages

[bodsdad]

My son has been subject to some bullying and teasing at school.  He recently received a threatening text, the sender did not have the sense to not send their number with the text.  Should I try ringing this number to find out who sent it.  How would one suggest that I tackle this.

[netibiza]

I would suggest you tell the Headteacher and see what they suggest.  Wouldn't involve the Police at the moment although if it continues then yes.

[bodsdad]

Thanks for that.  I have told the school but they say they can't proceed unless they know it was from someone at the school.

[natalie_1982]

I would probably withold my number and call pretending to be someone else i.e. "Can I speak to (insert fake name) please?", then "Oh, sorry.  Then who am I speaking to, as I'm sure they gave me the right number?".  Then you have their name!

But then again, I don't have children - how does your son feel about this?  Is it likely to make the situation worse if his father is calling up the bully?  Personally, I wouldn't want you to do it and would be mortified if my parents got involed (obviously depending on the extent of the bullying).

[Laura-sakura]

Keep in mind that bullies are cowards - the sender may have used someone elses mobile phone.  I would call the number and say that you have received this text and will be informing the police.  You may want to remind them that harrassment is an offence carrying a maximum sentence of 6 months imprisonment.  Keep the text and definetly go to the police if it happens again.  Good luck.

[MargeB]

are you kidding???

STRAIGHT TO THE POLICE.

no brainer.

[bodsdad]

Thank you all for these very useful responses.

I have managed to find out who owns the phone using natalie_1982's suggestion.  However, the person who answered has never been one of my son's antagonists, in fact my son says he is a "nice lad".  I don't want to go in all guns blazing so am going to speak to the school for their input.  

Many thanks once again to al of you.

[natalie_1982]

I hope it all gets sorted out soon, for your sake and your son's :) X

[acw]

Good luck.  It sounds like you're taking a very measured approach that should help to solve the problem without embarassing your son in any way.  Also be pleased that your relationship with your son is such that he told you about the message.  Talking to you will help him so much too!