What have lawmakers proposed for perpertrators of harassment and stalking?

 In recent years, lawmakers across the world have been taking a closer look at the issue of harassment and stalking, and proposing new measures to combat these harmful behaviors. From tougher criminal penalties to new civil remedies, there are a variety of proposals on the table aimed at holding perpetrators accountable and protecting victims.

One of the most common proposals is to increase the criminal penalties for harassment and stalking. In many jurisdictions, these behaviors are currently classified as misdemeanors, with relatively light sentences for offenders. However, lawmakers are now considering upgrading these offenses to felonies, which would carry much steeper penalties.

For example, in the United States, several states have recently passed or proposed bills that would make stalking a felony offense. In California, for instance, a new law passed in 2021 makes it a felony to stalk someone twice within seven years, or to violate a restraining order while stalking. The law carries a sentence of up to three years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Similarly, in the United Kingdom, lawmakers have proposed increasing the maximum sentence for stalking from five to ten years. The proposal has received widespread support from victim advocacy groups, who argue that the current penalties are not severe enough to deter would-be offenders.

Another proposal gaining traction is the use of civil remedies to combat harassment and stalking. Civil remedies are legal actions that can be taken by victims or their representatives, rather than by law enforcement. These remedies can include restraining orders, injunctions, and damages awards.

One example of this approach is the use of "revenge porn" laws. Revenge porn is the non-consensual sharing of intimate photos or videos, often by an ex-partner seeking revenge. Many jurisdictions now have laws on the books criminalizing revenge porn, but victims can also seek civil remedies such as restraining orders or damages awards.

Similarly, some jurisdictions have proposed or implemented "stalking protection orders" (SPOs). SPOs are court orders that prohibit an individual from engaging in certain behaviors towards a victim, such as contacting them or following them. Violating an SPO can result in criminal penalties.

One potential benefit of civil remedies is that they can provide victims with more immediate relief than criminal penalties. For example, if a victim obtains a restraining order against their harasser, they may be able to stop the behavior without waiting for a criminal trial or conviction.

However, civil remedies also have some limitations. For one thing, they rely on victims or their representatives to take legal action, which can be difficult or intimidating for some individuals. Additionally, civil remedies may not be effective against particularly dangerous or persistent offenders.

Finally, lawmakers are also considering ways to address harassment and stalking in the workplace. These behaviors can have serious consequences for victims' mental health and job performance, and can create a toxic work environment for everyone involved.

One proposal is to require employers to provide training on harassment and stalking prevention. This training could include information on identifying and responding to these behaviors, as well as strategies for creating a safe and respectful workplace culture.

Another proposal is to hold employers liable for failing to prevent harassment and stalking in the workplace. This would create an incentive for employers to take these issues seriously and implement effective policies and procedures.

Overall, there are many different proposals on the table for addressing harassment and stalking. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, it's clear that lawmakers are taking these issues seriously and working to protect victims from these harmful behaviors. Whether through criminal penalties, civil remedies, or workplace policies, there are many tools available to combat harassment and stalking and create a safer, more respectful society for everyone.

 Types of Stalking

Physical Stalking: This involves following, spying on, or making unwanted contact with someone in person.

Cyberstalking: This involves using electronic communication such as social media, email, or text messages to harass or intimidate someone, using technology to monitor the victim's activities and location. Joining the same groups and forums as the victim. Releasing the victim's confidential information online. Engaging with the online posts made by the victim. Continuing harassment even after being asked to stop. Creating fake profiles on social media or other online platforms to follow the victim aka Catfishing. Using any Hijacking or Hacking Tools to get into their personal electronics. Using Google Maps or Street View or any similar programming tools to monitor their known locations. Unwarranted and unauthorized and or unlawful tracking by any means to monitor the whereabouts of the victim. In addition, Collective Cyberstalking is the use of another individual or a group of other individuals to monitor, track, stalk, harass or use of any of the other means previously listed toward the victim. This is punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 each.

Celebrity Stalking: This involves an individual who becomes obsessed with a celebrity and goes to great lengths to try to meet or communicate with them.

Intimate Partner Stalking: This involves an ex-partner or current partner who engages in stalking behavior to maintain control or power over their partner.

Economic Stalking: This involves an individual who uses stalking behavior to harm someone's financial status or reputation. 

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