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Phoebe Prince Case Draws To A Close

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Sean Mulveyhill, center, stands with his attorneys during his hearing where he pleaded guilty to criminal harassment in the Phoebe Prince case, Wednesday. (AP)
Sean Mulveyhill, center, stands with his attorneys during his hearing where he pleaded guilty to criminal harassment in the Phoebe Prince case, Wednesday. (AP)

In January of 2010, 15-year-old Phoebe Prince committed suicide. This week, the cases of five South Hadley teenagers charged in connection with her death are drawing to a close.

On Wednesday, two defendants admitted to harassing Prince in exchange for having more serious felony charges dropped. They both received probation and community service. The three other defendants were expected to do the same on Thursday.

The cases have raised large questions about bullying and the criminal justice system. Chief among them: is mean behavior, even behavior that may push someone toward suicide, criminal behavior?

Emily Bazelon, senior editor for Slate, has reported extensively on the Phoebe Prince story, and she's been examining those big questions.

Guest:

  • Emily Bazelon, senior editor, Slate

This segment aired on May 5, 2011.

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