Stalking is a pervasive and distressing issue that affects many individuals across all genders, races and economic statuses. According to SPARC (Stalking Prevention Awareness and Resource Center), an estimated 13.5 million people are stalked in a one-year period in the United States, with more than half of all victims indicating they were stalked before the age of 25. The vast majority of stalking victims are stalked by someone they know, including more than 40% by a current/former intimate partner.
In Ohio, stalking is defined under Ohio Revised Code Section 2903.211. Stalking occurs when an individual engages in a pattern of behavior that causes another person to fear for their safety or the safety of their family. Key elements include:
Pattern of Behavior: Repeated and intentional acts, such as following, monitoring, or harassing.
Fear or Distress: The behavior must cause the victim to experience substantial emotional distress or fear for their safety.
Stalking behavior is persistent and intentional, aiming to control or intimidate the individual. Stalking behaviors can be varied and may include:
In-Person Stalking: Involves direct physical proximity, such as following the victim, showing up at their home or workplace, or loitering around places they frequent.
Cyberstalking: Utilizes digital platforms to harass or intimidate, including sending threatening emails, spreading false information online, or hacking into personal accounts.
Telephone Stalking: Includes repeated unwanted calls or text messages, often with threatening or harassing content.
Postal Stalking: Involves sending unsolicited letters, gifts, or packages that can cause distress to the recipient.
This behavior can have severe psychological, emotional, and physical consequences for those targeted. Victims often experience:
Anxiety and Fear: Persistent stalking behavior can lead to chronic anxiety, fear for personal safety, and hyper-vigilance.
Depression: Prolonged harassment can result in significant emotional distress and depressive symptoms.
Isolation: Victims may withdraw from social activities and relationships due to fear of encountering the stalker or being targeted.
Trauma: In severe cases, stalking can lead to trauma-related disorders, such as PTSD.
For those who find themselves in a stalking situation, taking proactive steps is crucial. SPARC recommends that you:
Trust your instincts. Victims of stalking often feel pressured by friends or family to downplay the stalker’s behavior, but stalking poses a real threat of harm. Your safety is paramount.
Call the police if you feel you are in any immediate danger. Explain why the stalker’s actions are causing you fear.
Keep a record or log of each contact with the stalker. Be sure to also document any police reports.
Save evidence when possible. Stalkers often use technology to contact their victims. Save all emails, text messages, photos, and postings on social networking sites as evidence of the stalking behavior. You may also want to consider how to use your technology and your devices in a safer manner. For more information, please visit the National Network to End Domestic Violence Safety Net Project’s Tech Safety Site.
Get connected with a local victim service provider who can assist you in exploring your options as well as discuss safety planning. Locally, you can reach out to Crime Victim Services at 877-867-7273,
Stalking is a serious issue that can profoundly affect the lives of its victims. By understanding the nature of stalking, recognizing its signs, and knowing the available legal and support resources, individuals and communities can better address and prevent this harmful behavior. Awareness and proactive measures are key in creating a safer environment for everyone and ensuring that those affected receive the support they need.
Crime Victim Services is here to help. If you've been a victim of stalking, reach out to an advocate today. Call 877.867.7273 or chat online at crimevictimservices.org/chat
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