Eight high school students have been arrested and charged with criminal harassment following a police investigation into a bullying case at a school in southwestern Ontario.
Police said their probe revealed that a student at London South Collegiate Institute had been the target of physical, emotional and cyber bullying.
The accused students - all girls - have been released from police custody on a promise to appear in court. Police say additional charges may be laid.
An official with the Thames Valley District School Board said the eight suspects were suspended earlier this week, and face possible expulsion when the school completes its own investigation into the allegations.
Bill Tucker, the board's director of education, said the school and police, were made aware of the allegations a week ago after receiving more than half a dozen tips from students, staff and community members.
Many of the tips had come in anonymously from the school's web portal.
Tucker said as a result, the school immediately took swift action to "monitor" the safety of the alleged victim.
On Friday, the school held an assembly to highlight the "positive results" of reporting bullying cases.
"Bullying is not tolerated. It's not acceptable. There are consequences," said Tucker, adding the board also needs to protect the accused students.
"I am responsible for the safety of all students."
The arrests came as several schools and groups prepared to pay tribute to bullying victims, including the high profile death of Amanda Todd.
