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Dec 1, 2021 · In Ohio, the law defines stalking as a repeated pattern of intimidation, and sets forward some serious penalties for the behavior, whether it occurs in real life or on the internet. So what exactly counts as stalking in Ohio? And what consequences will you face if you’re charged with it?
If you believe someone is stalking you online, you can consider filing for a civil stalking protection order against them. A protection order may help, but it has risks. A protection order is an official document from a judge ordering an abuser to stop certain actions to help keep you safe.
Jun 20, 2016 · Ohio stalking law ("menacing by stalking") prohibits the following behaviors: No person by engaging in a pattern of conduct shall knowingly cause another person to believe that the offender will cause physical harm to the other person or cause mental distress to the other person.
- Overview
- Collecting Evidence of Stalking
- Protecting Yourself from a Stalker
- Requesting a Restraining Order
The idea that someone might be stalking you can be terrifying and confusing – especially if your stalker is someone you once cared about. However, as much as you might want to ignore the situation and hope it goes away, it's important to gather as much evidence as you can of the person's behavior. To get protection from law enforcement, you may have to prove that you are being stalked. This can be easier if you have direct evidence, rather than simply your word against theirs. Above all, make sure that you and your loved ones are safe. Call your local emergency number if you feel you are in immediate danger.
To collect evidence, take photos of your stalker, save their messages, keep gifts they send you, record things they say about you on social media, and keep notes on your interactions.
Put your safety first by not sharing personal details on social media, changing your social media login credentials, and keeping your loved ones updated on the situation.
To file a restraining order, fill out forms and submit them to your local family court.
Gather information about your stalker.
You don't just need to be able to prove that the person is stalking you. You'll also need enough information about the person so the police can identify that person and bring them to justice. Write down everything you know about the person stalking you, including their full legal name, any aliases, and a description of the person.
You should also write down any location information you have, including where they live and where they work or go to school. If there are particular locations they are known to frequent, such as restaurants, cafés, or bars, write those down as well.
Include any contact information you have, such as the person's email address, phone number, and handles on messaging services or on social media. All of this information can help police identify them and track them down.
If your stalker could access any of your online accounts, changing your usernames or passwords can keep them out. This is especially important if you previously had a romantic relationship with the person stalking you, or if they're a member of your family.
If you believe the person is monitoring or has access to your computer, change your usernames and passwords from a secure computer that they couldn't access.
If it's possible that the person stalking you also has keys to your house, you should also change the locks on all of your doors.
Get a new phone if you suspect the stalker is monitoring your phone.
A new phone or new phone number may eliminate the possibility that your stalker is keeping track of who calls or texts you, or even listening in on your phone calls.
If you have a phone through work, talk to your employer about getting a new phone. Emphasize the security risk that comes from this person having access to your phone and all of the information that is sent and received.
Call the police emergency number if you feel you are in immediate danger.
If your stalker is local to you and is threatening to harm you or your loved ones, call an emergency number, such as 911 in the US, immediately. Give the operator your name and location, and tell them that you've been threatened and feel your life is in danger.
If you know the approximate location of your stalker, let the operator know that as well. They can dispatch a police officer to intercept your stalker.
Make sure you're in a safe place before you call, if at all possible. For example, if your stalker can access your home, you may want to go to a friend or family member's house. Do everything you can to get out of harm's way.
Contact a local crisis hotline or victim services agency.
Domestic violence hotlines, shelters, and victim services agencies have resources to help keep you safe if you're being stalked. They will help you even if your stalker isn't a family member or former romantic partner.
If you are a victim of an assault, stalking, a sexually oriented offense or certain other crimes, and you are NOT a family or household member, you may be able to ask for a Criminal Protection Order (CRPO) as a part of that case. Many prosecutor's offices have victim's advocates that can help you with that process.
10 min. A civil protection order can help keep you safe if you have experienced stalking or sexual violence. Learn more about getting a Civil Stalking or Sexually Oriented Offense Protection Order. Send this page to: Understanding the Basics. See what you need to know to take action. Close - A protection order is an official document from a judge.
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Dec 13, 2023 · Identifying signs of stalking behavior, like unwanted communication and constant monitoring, can help you deal with a stalker. You're not alone.
