B.C. premier to push for more protections for youth, after talking to dad of 12-year-old sextortion victim

WARNING: This story contains details about suicide.

British Columbia Premier David Eby says an emotional conversation with the father of a 12-year-old B.C. boy who died by suicide after falling prey to online sextortion has prompted him to push for more protections for youth.

Eby says the B.C. New Democrat government plans changes in the new year honouring the memory of Carson Cleland of Prince George, whom police said died in October after being victimized online.

The preteen took his own life on Oct. 12 and investigators have since determined his actions were in response to online sextortion, according to an RCMP news release. Police are still working to identify a suspect.

Sextortion is a practice of demanding money or sexual favours from someone by threatening to expose intimate images and videos of the victim, or other evidence of online sexual activity.

WATCH| Expert offers tips on talking to kids aboutdangers of sextortion:

Experts urge parents to talk to kids about dangers of online sextortion

9 months ago

Duration 2:20

RCMP say a 12-year-old boy in Prince George, B.C., died by suicide after being a victim of online sextortion. Mental health experts tell BC Today host Michelle Eliot that an open line of communication can provide a sense of safety as children process stories like these.

The premier says he spoke with Carson's father who told him that since their son's death, the family has been contacted by the families of three of his classmates, who said their children were also talking online with strangers.

Hisremarks come in a year-end interview, during which the premiersaid Carson's family are facing devastating loss this holiday season but demonstrated remarkable courage by going public with their tragedy.

If you or someone you know is struggling, here's where to get help:

• 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline:The helpline is a short, easy-to-remember number to get a quick response from coast to coast to coast, 24/7 and free of charge.You can also text this number 24/7.
• Kids Help Phone:1-800-668-6868 (phone), live chat counselling onthe website.
• Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention:Find a 24-hour crisis centre.
• This guide from theCentre for Addiction and Mental Healthoutlines how to talk about suicide with someone you're worried about.