Stalking, a Form of Harassment
Criminal Harassment
Criminal Harassment is the legal term for stalking. It can involve repeatedly following someone from place to place, repeatedly communicating directly or indirectly with someone, watching or waiting for a person at their home, place of work, or where they might carry on business, and engaging in threatening conduct directed at the person or member of their family. Stalkers harass out of a need for power and control so it is not your fault.
Stalking/criminal harassment can involve
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Repeated telephone calls, letters, or emails
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Unwanted gifts
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Showing up uninvited
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Stealing mail
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Following and watching
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Threatening harm to person being stalked or their family/friends
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Harassing employer, co-workers, or family of victim
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Harming pets
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Vandalizing home/car
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Assault, kidnapping
What can I do if I am being stalked?
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Contact the police
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Ask for a risk assessment
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Avoid all contact with the stalker
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Keep track of events
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Make a personal safety plan
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Check out services through victim programs or community services
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Tell your family and friends, breaking the silence can be important for your safety and well-being
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Learn about the law, and check around for information and support.
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Take out a peace bond (criminal court) or a restraining order (family court) for a protection by court. They are legally binding, and you can go to the police if the person disobeys the peace bond or restraining order. They may be effective in some cases, but do not always work.
There is a strong link between stalking and domestic violence. Most victims are women and most of the stalkers are men.
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