With social media being front and center in the lives of most Americans, young and old, a voice in public discourse is at the fingertips of almost everyone. Public citizens, like politicians, face a higher likelihood of being criticized, even threatened, more than ever before.
"It's obviously gotten more and more prevalent as social media has come into play," Nesta said. "People become keyboard warriors… I will not stand for it in any capacity."
The issue of online harassment was brought up at the Apopka City Council's July 5th meeting. Commissioner Nick Nesta alleged that he and his family had been the victim of hostile threats on social media.
Nesta pointed to a post on The Apopka Voice that he interpreted as implying a threat against his wife and children. Because the commenter's legal name cannot be verified, they will be referred to as "wheresthepopcorn," their username on the news site.
"…This isn't a threat. Just a warning to be careful," wheresthepopcorn wrote. "You have a beautiful family. Go enjoy them. Hopefully, your wife doesn't get stalked like the 1st city atty [attorney.]"
Nesta said that he not only receives messages like this but also that a photo of his wife's vehicle surfaced. He said that threats against his family are unacceptable and that he has reported comments to the Apopka Police Department.
Nesta told Mayor Bryan Nelson that most of the threats he receives come from the Mayor's supporters. Nelson, taken aback by the comment, became visibly frustrated and disassociated himself from those who take to the internet to hurl threats and insults.
"Don't put me in the same boat with whatever is being said out there on social media," Nelson said. "… I just can't believe you just said that. I cannot believe you just said that."
Nesta sought to reconcile with Nelson by proposing that all on the City Council come together and take legal action against anyone who makes intimidating threats. Nelson said that discussing the matter shouldn't even be necessary as threats of this nature are and always have been unacceptable. Nelson said that he had experienced similar threats, even about his mother.
"I will not stand for it any further…" Nesta said. "Our families didn't choose to be elected. We did."
Commissioner Alexander Smith said that he has experienced what he believes may have been harassment when unknown individuals were photographing his home.
"I agree, there needs to be some kind of statement or policy of whatever our attorney thinks that needs to be done in order to discourage that kind of behavior," Smith said.
City Commissioner Kyle Becker said that being in their position leaves them open to criticism from residents with valid complaints or concerns.
"We also have to have thick skin in terms of people's assessment of the performance that we do within the job that we're serving for," Becker said.
On the other hand, Becker reiterated the sentiment of those who spoke before him and said that attacks against their families should be off-limits.
Editor's Note: The Apopka Voice is turning off comments on its news site until further notice. There will be more details on this decision in Monday's edition.
