Grenada to punish online offenses

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada – Legislators in Grenada have approved a bill that makes it a crime to offend people through websites such as Facebook and Twitter.

The measure was approved as part of an electronic crimes bill passed late Friday in the tiny eastern Caribbean island. The same bill also imposes penalties on other online activities, including electronic stalking and identity theft.

“We have problems when some use the technology to engage in mischief,” Legal Affairs Minister Elvin Nimrod said. “We have to put structures in place to ensure that persons and, in some cases, companies and characters are not tarnished.”

Those found guilty could be fined up to $37,000 or face three years in prison.