Stalking is also known as criminal harassment. It is repeated conduct that causes you to fear for your safety. Criminal harassment is a crime.
A stalker is often someone you know or someone you once dated.
The National Center for Victims of Crime (USA) advises that one in 12 women and one in 45 men will be stalked in their lifetime.
On Sept 29, 2011 at the trial of John Palumbo who was found guilty of criminal harassing singer, Shania Twain), Ms. Twain testified:
" I started to wonder where the end to it was, and how isolated my life would have to be to avoid more contact, unwanted contact.....I was concerned about what he was capable of."
If you or someone you know is being stalking or harassed treat the matter seriously. Do not minimize the affect that these actions can have on you. Trust your instincts and get help. The police and Bow Valley Victim Services can be of help. If you feel you are in immediate danger call 911.
Criminal harassment can include behaviour such as:
following you or showing up wherever you are
repeatedly calling you (including hang-ups)
damaging your home, car, or other property
excessive and unwanted texts and emails
sending unwanted gifts, letters, cards, or e-mails
monitoring your phone calls or computer use
using technology, like hidden cameras or GPS to track you
threatening to hurt you, your family, friends, or pets
contacting your friends, family, neighbors or co-workers
other actions that control or frighten you
The resources below will help you learn more about criminal harassment and how to stop it.
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