What is stalking?
Anytime any other person makes you feel uneasy or does something that would intimidate you, it could be illegal. One situation where such actions might occur that are against the law is stalking.
According to the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New Jersey Revised Statutes include stalking as a form of domestic violence.
Definition
Stalking occurs when someone repeatedly follows someone else. If someone is consistently in the same place as you for no apparent reason, it might be stalking. The act may also include making threatening statements or intimidation. It does involve the person intentionally making sure he or she is near you and often coming into contact with you despite you not asking for or wanting such contact.
Sometimes, you may not even be aware someone is stalking you. If you notice repeat actions, such as someone letting the air out of your car tire, this also could be stalking actions.
Stalking can also involve other people who one person is sending to harass or contact you on their behalf.
Important points
To qualify as stalking, the actions of the other person must cause you distress. They must occur two or more times, and they need to make you reasonably fear for your safety.
Stalking may be domestic violence if you have a relationship that qualifies under the state’s domestic violence laws. You should report any situation of stalking to authorities.
Stalking charges can range in severity depending on the circumstances of the behavior and any existing court orders applying to the relationship, such as a restraining order.