NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — No criminal charges will be filed in the suicide of a Coffee County teen, who family members say was bullied.
Coffee County District Attorney Craig Northcott made the announcement Tuesday, about two months after the Manchester teen died.
Smith's death rocked the Coffee County community. The 16-year old's family says Channing Smith killed himself after being outed as bi-sexual online.
"He was so humiliated by what they had done that he killed himself," said Channing's brother Joshua.
Channing's father met with District Attorney Craig Northcott and the sheriff to discuss the case, arguing his son's case fits Tennessee's definition of cyber bullying and the teens should be held responsible.
MORE: Legal expert weighs in on Coffee County cyber bullying case
But Northcott says he will not seek charges because "there is not probable cause to believe that any crimes have been committed."
Read Northcott's full statement below:
"Upon the completion of the full investigation into the circumstances of Channing Smith's death by the Coffee County Sheriff's Department and this office and after a review of the criminal statutes of this state, I have determined that there is not probable cause to believe that any crimes have been committed in this tragic situation. Thus, no criminal charges or juvenile petitions will be sought by this office. The family remains in my prayers and I hope that all of Channing's friends and family can find peace in this difficult time."
