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Several Penn Township Students Charged In Sexting Case

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Several students in Penn Township are facing summary charges for allegedly sending lewd photos to other students using their cell phones.

Officials say six to 12 students from the Penn-Trafford School District are involved in the case.

A teacher allegedly overheard a conversation about some students who were sexting and told the school's administration. During questioning, some of the students' cell phones were confiscated as evidence.

"Once this material is located on a cell phone, that device is seized by law enforcement," said Chief Otto.

The chief of police is filing the summary charges. Chief John Otto says the kids need to learn a lesson.

"Those photographs are there forever and there's no way to get rid of them," Chief Otto said.

He also says parents need to monitor their kids and let them know that sexting is not okay. Otto adds that sexting is very prevalent in today's digital age and kids need to know that it is illegal.

"It would be very nice if occasionally our children would employee common sense when it comes to these kinds of things, but again, kids are always going to push the limits," added Chief Otto.

Penn Trafford School District Superintendent Matt Harris released this statement on the matter:

"As a district, we are disappointed and concerned that this is happening. The administration followed all procedures in handling the case and worked cooperatively with the Penn Township Police."

All of the students are under the age of 17, so they cannot be charged under current child pornography laws.

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