The early stages of bullying intervention call for those accused in such instances to meet with counselors, parents and school administrators. But when the cases become extreme, or when the bullying just doesn’t stop, bullies can meet a different group of people.

At that point, police, prosecutors, attorneys and judges enter the picture. Then the tone changes. Assistant State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser said students might think it’s fun to pick on a classmate in an online setting, but if the courts see things differently, it could lead to a cyberstalking conviction.

“When you apply for a job, you have to tell them that you were convicted of cyberstalking,” Mosser said. “What seems like fun and games can have consequences.”