Stalking

Stalking means a repeated course of conduct directed at a specific person (when based on gender or sex) that places that person in reasonable fear for his/her or others' safety, or causes the victim to suffer substantial emotional distress.

Examples of stalking behavior include:

• Making unwanted telephone calls
• Waiting inside or outside buildings
• Watching from afar
• Following
• Sending unwanted letters
• Sending unwanted emails
• Making unwanted visits
• Giving unwanted gifts

Stalkers are often a:

• Current or ex-boy/girlfriend
• Classmate
• Acquaintance
• Friend
• Coworker

In most situations, stalkers are trying to intimidate, harass, and control their victims. Stalking also often occurs within an abusive relationship in which the abusive partner is trying to track and control the victim’s movements and interactions.