Stalking is a term commonly used to refer to unwanted, obsessive attention directed at a specific person that would reasonably cause them to feel threatened. Stalking behaviors are related to harassment and intimidation, including:

• repeated phone calls, texts, emails or sending unwanted gifts.
• following or keeping tabs on where a person goes.
• driving by or showing up where a person lives or works.
• damaging a person’s home or property.
• threatening harm to a person or their loved one.
• searching public records or social media sites, or hiring investigators.
• going through a person’s personal belongings or garbage.
• contacting a person’s friends, family, neighbors or co-workers.

Stalking can happen between strangers, but most people have dated or been involved with their stalker. Stalking can begin during a relationship or after a relationship has ended. Stalking behaviors are unpredictable and can lead to violence.

Protect Yourself from Stalkers

For more information about stalking and how to protect yourself, please visit the Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center Website » or call your local crisis hotline, victim services agency, or a domestic violence or rape crisis program.

They can help you devise a safety plan, give you information about local laws, refer you to other services and weigh options such as seeking a protection order.

We recognize that people experiencing crime have varied needs. For information about other resources that may be helpful to you, please see 211info.org »