In Support of Victimized Ohio Autistic Teen, Sverve and GiveForward Launch #Love>Hate Fundraising Campaign

The bullies from Bay Village Ohio who "pranked" an autistic teen with a fake ALS Ice Bucket Challenge have been identified and may face criminal assault charges. The three teens convinced an autistic classmate to participate in an ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. But they had no intention of doing a real challenge. Instead of water and ice, the bullies poured urine, feces, spit, and cigarette butts on the autistic teen. They videotaped and posted the cruel act on social media sites. Ohio native Drew Carey and other celebrities [Jenny McCarthy and Donnie Wahlberg] offered rewards in excess of $10K to I.D. the bullies. Three teens have been identified.

"Under Ohio law, no person shall knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical harm to another. Physical harm means any injury, illness, or other physiological impairment regardless of its gravity or duration." At this time it has not been determined specifically what charges will be filed against the three who have been identified as the perpetrators. Bay Village Ohio school officials say they will take no disciplinary action until the police complete their criminal investigation. The "prank" did not occur during school hours nor on school property. However if it can be proven the victim's education process has been interfered with, the teens could be suspended and/or expelled.

The school also released the following statement: "Dear Bay Village students, parents, staff and community members: Many of our students and staff members have been participating in fundraising for ALS through the Ice Bucket Challenge. It hurts us deeply to see such a wonderful effort twisted to deliberately cause someone pain. We are supporting our Bay Village Police Department as they vigilantly work to complete their investigation in this case."

Fundraising for the victimized teen has not been limited to celebrities on twitter. Give Forward "the world's #1 fundraising site for helping people in need" in conjunction with social media site Sverve has launched #Love>Hate campaign in support of the autistic teen. As of this posting GiveForward has reached 54% of the #Love>Hate $5000.00 goal.

For official ALS IceBucketChallenge Information please click this link: ALS