Stalking is not a new phenomenon, but has only recently been recognized as a significant and widespread problem. It differs from many other crimes in at least two respects. By definition, it is a form of repeat victimization–behavior constituting a series of incidents rather than a single criminal act. It is also a crime that is defined, in part, by its impact on the victim–by the fear it induces.
Individual stalking incidents looked at in isolation often appear innocuous. But once identified as part of a pattern of behavior of unwanted contact imposed on the victim by the perpetrator, it’s another story. Whether they are linked to domestic violence or involve perpetrators who are acquaintances or strangers, stalking incidents become threatening and sinister, even in the absence of any overt threats to harm the victim. In a significant number of cases, stalking is in fact, a precursor to lethal violence.
The fear induced by stalking, the drastic way it disrupts victims’ lives, and the real dangers faced by many victims all demand effective intervention by law enforcement. Yet, stalking is exceptionally difficult to police–difficult to investigate, prosecute, and prevent–and the majority of police departments in the United States lack clearly defined policies to deal with it.
Traditional “reactive” policing is ill-suited to the challenges because it means waiting for something to happen and then responding. Where there is an ever-present risk that stalking will cross over into physical violence and victim safety and prevention are the priorities, such an approach inevitably falls short. Stalking by its nature calls for early intervention, preventive action, and proactive problem-solving. These are the hallmarks of community policing.
An important component of a community oriented approach is implementation of a protocol or written policy directive that sets out appropriate responses by police officers in stalking cases. Following a review of current promising practices, the National Center for Victims of Crime (“the National Center”) developed a Model Stalking Protocol to promote more effective anti-stalking policies by police departments across the nation. The Model Protocol was subsequently adapted and field-tested by the Philadelphia Police Department with assistance from the National Center.
