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INFO

If you suspect you are being stalked it is critical that you maintain a log of all stalking related incidents and behavior. The stalking log should be used to record and document all stalking related behaviors. Documenting this behavior can be an emotionally exhausting task. Please contact an advocate at 733-SAFE(7233) for support and assistance with safety planning. You can print an incident and behavior log below.

DOWNLOAD the Incident and Behavior Log

STALKING

Stalking is a series of actions that puts another person in fear.

Do you fear that someone is following you; monitoring your movements; harassing you with phone calls, e-mails, or text messages? Have you previously been in a relationship and your ex-partner just "can't let go?" Have you been pursued by someone who won't take no for an answer? If you've responded yes to any of these questions, you might be a victim of a stalker.

Stalking can be unpredictable and dangerous. A stalker can be someone you know well, or not at all. Most stalking victims do have some sort of relationship with their stalker. In many instances, stalking is simply an extension of domestic violence after the relationship ends. Victims often feel great fear, and with good cause. Stalking can become violent over time. The most benign stalker can become dangerous if the stalking continues long enough.

Below is a checklist of strategies to combat stalking:

  • Trust your instincts. If your "gut" tells you you're being stalked, you probably are.
  • Call 911 every time the stalker approaches you, harasses you, and leaves you messages, letters, gifts. Even if these are non-threatening, you'll want to start documenting everything you can.
  • Change your phone number and share it only with those you trust. But keep your old number to document unwanted calls and messages from your stalker. Have someone else check those messages to limit the trauma to you.
  • Do not communicate with the stalker under any circumstances.
  • Change your daily routine, if you can. Drive to work a different way or at a different time, change your work hours, change the days you do shopping, run errands, etc.
  • Take any threats seriously. Call 911 immediately.
  • Pursue a Stalking Protection Order to send a clear message that the stalking must stop.
  • Build a support network. Enlist the help of friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers. The broader your support system, the harder it may be for the stalker to victimize you.
  • Call 733-SAFE(7233) for more assistance. Every stalking situation is different. Our advocates are standing by to help you design a personalized safety plan and offer support.

For more online information on stalking, CSN recommends www.ncvc.org.