Stalking is a pattern of unwanted behavior that is threatening and/or creates fear. This may include following, sending unwanted items, "gifts" or contacting through phone or text messaging or through social networking sites.
These crimes lack consent, which is active and enthusiastic participation. Consent can be given and revoked at any time and cannot be assumed from silence or lack of resistance.
The CARE Office and Valley Crisis Center are available to provide support and information about the various options you have.
We can:
- Work with you in developing a safety plan.
- Work with campus offices to protect your personal information.
- Work with phone companies, social network sites and email providers to protect your information.
Options for Responding to Stalking Behaviors
- Stalking is a reportable offense. You can report the behaviors to the campus or city police.
- Consider talking to your friends and family about the importance of keeping your personal information private.
- If you feel it is safe to do so, you should set clear limits about what is unwelcome contact. (i.e. "I'm not interested in having a relationship with you. Please, do not continue to call, stop by, or have any contact with me whatsoever.")
- It is a good idea to maintain a log of incidents and behaviors because it will aid in documenting behaviors. For restraining order applications or criminal prosecution, you can log: harassing phone calls, letters, emails, acts of vandalism and threats communicated through third parties. Keeping a log may also help preserve your memory of individual incidents.
Learn more about a survivor's rights.
