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.
I can only pray that the police agencies across the Nation adapt the new Model Protocol, and continue to strive for a safer public, from the reckless and sometimes deadly crime of stalking.
And this is going to be a high priority for us…doing whatever it takes, going in to the future, to see these changes happen. They have to happen. Law enforcement does want to protect the victims, they just don’t have the correct protocol (tools) yet.
What tools do you feel are need to successfully catch a stalker?
Jenn – so many all listed in the National Stalking Protocal but I will try to list things as soon as I get the time…I am so sorry I can’t do it now. If you go to the this website and click on the video Part 3 of 3 and listen to it you will know. It is at the bottom of the stalking page.
Im not real sure I have a case, and sometimes I feel nuts. But, this girl just will not leave me alone. I had to call the police, knowing she did not break any laws, and they spoke with her. Thought it would work, it just started up again. I am afraid of her, her self confessed “beating up people”, and many other things. Unfortunately she lives right beneath me too. I was disgusted with the way the police handled this. She stole very personal papers from me (ss number, birthdate, etc) she threatens me every time I go out, and when I come back in. What do I do short of moving?
Lynne you should document EVERYTHING on a daily basis and call the police EVERY time something happens in order to build a case. Read your State laws about stalking, as well as the Federal laws about stalking. Go to http://www.victimsofcrime.org/our-programs/stalking-resource-center/help-for-victims they also have a stalking victim and behavior log on sfvrsn=4″>http://www.victimsofcrime.org/docs/src/stalking-incident-log_pdf.pdf?sfvrsn=4 to help you keep track with your documentation of the events. Try to go back if you can and add in past events if you have them on your calendar and show when your personal papers disappeared, etc.
Every time you call the police about an incident – write it down – every time they show up at your house get their cards with the incident # written on it (save them) and write it down. If it doesn’t seem like they are actively trying to make a case agains this stalker and get you a restraining order then go in person to your District Attorneys office with all your documentation, a copy of your state law, and ask for the DA to intercede on your behalf.
You can also contact the National Center for Victims of Crime to ask for advise – they are very knowledgable people
2000 M Street NW, Suite 480
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 467-8700
Fax: (202) 467-8701
Good luck and let me know how you are doing and if you need any more suggestions.