You are not to blame for a stalker’s behavior.
Stalking is a series of actions that make you feel afraid or in danger. Stalking is serious, often violent and can escalate over time. A stalker can be someone you know well or not at all. Most have dated or been involved with the people they stalk. Stalking is a Crime.
Are you being stalked?
Does someone:
- Repeatedly call and/or hang-up
- Follow you and show up wherever you are
- Send unwanted gifts, letters, cards, or emails
- Damage your home, car, or other property
- Monitor your phone calls, computer use, and track where you go
- Threaten to hurt you, your family, friends, or pets
- Attempt to control, track, or frighten you
What you can do if you feel you are being stalked?
Stalking is unpredictable and dangerous. No two stalking situations are alike, yet you can take steps to increase your safety. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
- Trust Your Instincts.
Do not downplay the danger. Take threats seriously, because generally, the danger is higher when the stalker talks about suicide or murder or when a victim tries to leave or end the relationship. - Contact The Victim Services 24/7/365 Helpline. We 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. Also decide in advance what to do if the stalker shows up at your home, work, school, or somewhere else. Tell people how they can help you.
- Do Not Communicate With The Stalker Or Respond To Attempts To Contact You.
Keep evidence of the stalking and when the stalker follows you write down the time, date, and place. Keep all emails, phone messages, letters, or notes. Also photograph anything you own that the stalker damages and any injuries caused. Ask witnesses to write down what they saw. - Contact The Police.
Every state has stalking laws and the stalker may have broken other laws by doing things like assaulting you or stealing/destroying property. Consider getting a court order that tells the stalker to stay away from you. - Tell Family, Friends, Roommates, And Co-Workers About The Stalking And Seek Their Support.
Tell security staff at your job or school. Ask them to help watch out for your safety.
For more information please call or text our helpline at 814-944-3585.
