Online support for bullied Dunkirk man

DUNKIRK, N.Y. (WIVB) - News 4 viewers are responding with anger, compassion and vigilance after a man with Tourette syndrome was stalked and tormented while riding his bicycle.

Mikey Gonzalez is diagnosed with Tourette syndrome and takes medication for it. When he's aggravated, Mikey can't control what he shouts and he hits himself.

When News 4 broke the story of the harassment Miguel "Mikey" Gonzalez faces every day, viewers flocked to our Facebook page full of emotion.

Nick wrote: "There are sick people in this world to harass someone with Tourette syndrome."

Stacey added: "Absolutely disgusting! Somebody needs to figure out a way to put an end to bullying once and for all!"

And Nina wrote: "They should be held responsible; their harassment caused him to go blind."

Our investigation prompted police to take action. Ryan Hudson, 18, and Matt Colon, 19, have both been charged with fourth degree stalking. The misdemeanor charge could land them up to 90 days in jail and one year probation.

And following out story, support for Mikey continues to grow. A group of his friends created a Facebook page called "Mikey's Angels" for others to offer words of support and inspiration to Mikey. It already has more than 150 followers.

Also, a viewer touched by Mikey's plight started a fundraiser on a GoFundMe.com. He's calling it "Mikey Deserves Better." The posting says they want to raise money and awareness for Mikey to have the peaceful life he deserves. They've already raised more than $850 in donations.

After News 4 reported the arrests of the two men who tormented Mikey from one end of town to the other, Charlotte wrote on our Facebook: "Good. I hope they will never bully anyone ever again! How awful they treated him!"