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What Is Stalking? Laws, Charges and Statute of Limitations
(0) Comment |Unlocking the Perils of Stalking: Diving Deep into Federal and State Anti-Stalking Laws
Victims of stalking and harassment experience the traumatizing and destructive impacts of these serious crimes in their lives. It is crucial to understand the protection that both federal and state laws offer against such heinous acts. However, the distinctions between these legal protections should be lucidly appreciated.
Federal Anti-Stalking Laws: Shielding Against Fear and Intimidation
Go straight to the source: Federal anti-stalking laws tackle stalking, harassment, and cyberstalking by labeling them as felonies. Though these charges carry significant weight, it is essential to acknowledge that they only apply to cases where stalking occurs through the telephone, internet, or U.S. Postal Service. In other words, countless terrifying stalking incidents involving one or more of these communication channels can be rightfully pursued under the powerful arm of federal law.
State Anti-Stalking Laws: Respite from Menacing Shadows
State laws play an equally crucial role in curbing stalking behavior. Interestingly, state anti-stalking codes come into full force when communication via the phone, mail, or internet is not involved. Consequently, stalking activities carried out in person, or through leaving messages or objects aimed at instilling fear, can be prosecuted with vigor by state courts.
An Era of Growing Fear: Cyberstalking in Our Digital World
With the increased dependency on the internet and virtual networking, cyberstalking is now an undeniably prevalent concern. Students in secondary schools and colleges and universities are frequently the targets of cyberstalkers and online bullies who have malicious intentions of tarnishing their victims’ reputations.
Understanding the Definitions and Nuances: Stalking and Harassment
Realize the depth: Under federal law, what qualifies as stalking encompasses repeated offenses that demonstrate a “course of conduct” in at least two or more violations. In contrast, harassment is identified as using words, actions, or behaviors with the sole purpose of distressing, alarming, or annoying another person.
Notably, for federal anti-stalking charges to come into play, certain conditions must be met, such as using communications that place a person in fear of death or injury, causing emotional distress, or putting someone under surveillance intending to harm.
Federal and State Laws: A Powerless Past and the Rise of Cyberstalking Punishments
The evolution of anti-stalking laws demonstrates a remarkable shift from helplessness to a robust deterrence, especially in the age of digital connectivity. Before 1990, state anti-stalking laws were non-existent; however, today, every state and the District of Columbia have enacted anti-stalking laws to protect their citizens.
Unfortunately, less than a third of states have anti-stalking laws that primarily focus on cyberstalking. However, any remaining gaps can be filled by seeking justice via federal statutes, carrying penalties for cyberstalking, including whopping $250,000 fines and imprisonment sentences of up to five years under 18 U.S.C. 875(c).
One of the table stakes in these matters is the Interstate Stalking Act, a sterling piece of legislation that made interstate stalking behavior a federal crime. This law took effect in 1996, thanks to the assiduous efforts of Bill Clinton.
The Time Factor: Limitations and Possibilities in Prosecuting Stalkers
It is essential to be aware of the Statute of Limitations, which sets the deadline for filing charges or seeking legal redress for stalking crimes. Federal charges generally have a three-year limitation, while civil lawsuits have a two-year limit, with possible delays under certain conditions, such as the plaintiff being a minor.
The Immense Value of Legal Expertise in Anti-Stalking Cases
Considering the gravity of stalking crimes, seeking assistance from an attorney specializing in federal and state anti-stalking laws might be the most vital choice a victim can make. A knowledgeable and skilled attorney can help ensure that justice is served and survivors can reclaim control of their lives in the face of fear and intimidation. Whether you have been charged with stalking or harassment or wish to pursue a civil suit for damages, securing expert legal counsel can truly make all the difference.