Stalking is illegal and can include being followed or constantly contacted by another person, like being sent unwanted emails or gifts. Both men and women can be victims of stalking.
Someone can be prosecuted if there are at least 2 instances of stalking behaviour which causes fear or alarm.
‘Fear and alarm’ covers physical or psychological harm, or apprehension or fear for the safety of the perceived victim or any other person.
Stalking behaviours:
Although each Stalking situation is unique and Stalkers may have different motivations, the tactics and techniques employed by each are often very similar.
- Following someone or someone else who is associated with that person.
- Contacting or attempting to contact a person by any means.
- Publishing material about someone without their consent.
- Monitoring someone’s phone, internet, email or other form of communication.
- Loitering in a public or private place.
- Interfering with someone’s property.
- Leaving unwanted gifts or notes for someone.
- Watching or spying on someone.
This is by no means an exhaustive list and each instance of stalking may present unique circumstances that are not listed above.
You can contact the police if you're being stalked. You have a right to feel safe.
If you'd prefer not to involve the police you can apply to court for civil orders – like a non-harassment order – if there's been at least 2 instances of harassment.