| Updated: 4:13 p.m.
A bill that would require Utah victims to provide more evidence that they’re being stalked before they can get a protective order has been passed by a committee despite pleas against it from victim advocates and attorneys.
Stalking victim Megan Mullineaux said she already hasn’t been able to get help under the state’s current statute, after a former partner has shown up at her house, her workplace and even when she was at a remote camping site. She said the proposed change will only make the process harder for those who need protection.
“It’s been extremely taxing and extremely difficult to prove, as it is now,” she said.
The Domestic Violence Action Center says people don’t realize stalking is a form of domestic abuse, especially if the behavior is perceived as non-violent.
January marks National Stalking Awareness Month, aims to help victims of stalking protect themselves
(Source: MGN)
and last updated 2021-01-22 15:07:06-05
According to the Stalking Prevention, Awareness, & Resource Center (SPARC), the month of January is National Stalking Awareness month.
National Stalking Awareness month intends to not only raise awareness about stalking but also helps others recognize and respond to stalking.
In Texas, stalking is defined as a person knowingly engaging in behavior that anyone else would find as a threat. An example could be showing up to someone s house when they ve expressed they do not want you there.
Stalking in Texas is classified as a 3rd degree felony but the penalty for a repeat offense is a 2nd degree felony.
A&M Central Texas provides extended support to student victims of stalking
Source: Texas A&M Central Texas
Source: Texas A&M Central Texas
and last updated 2021-01-22 19:52:35-05
The Stalking Prevention Awareness and prevention Resource Center (SPARC) reports an estimated 6-7.5 million Americans experience some type of stalking across the country every year.
approaching the victim or showing up in places when the victim didnât want them to be there; making unwanted telephone calls; leaving the victim unwanted messages (text or voice); watching or following the victim from a distance, or spying on the victim with a listening device, camera, or GPS.