In most cases, stalking involves an unwanted romantic interest, such as an estranged husband or wife, or boyfriend or girlfriend. Stalking may involve persons who are barely acquainted, as well as people who are well known to each other.

What is stalking?
Stalking is an intentional, malicious and repeated following or harassment of another person, and making a credible threat with the intent to place such person in reasonable fear for his or her safety.

If you’re a victim

• Report the crime. This is the first thing a victim of any crime should do.
• Maintain a record. Keep an account of each encounter with the stalker. The record should include dates, times, locations, complete description of the offender, words spoken, actions taken during the incident, actions taken after the incident and a list of witnesses present during the incident. If possible, the victim should tape record all threats made over the telephone.
• Seek a protection order (an Exparte Order of Protection). This is a restraining order that will limit contact between the offender and the victim. Call the Johnson County District Attorney’s Victim/Witness Unit at 913.715.3004 for information.

Prevention techniques
It is difficult to prevent stalking, particularly if the offender is determined. If you suspect you are a stalking victim, follow these suggestions:

• If at work, notify the supervisor. An employer can lend support and possibly help with intervention.
• Always carry your cell phone and call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
• Install a duress alarm system designed to call 9-1-1 at home and/or work for emergencies.
• Be very cautious when approaching your vehicle. Make sure it is always locked, whether the vehicle is occupied or not. Always check the back seat to make sure no one is in your vehicle.
• Travel in groups when possible, or at least have an escort to and from your vehicle at work.
• Carry a whistle or a battery-powered high-decibel alarm device.
• Change the locks on your home and vehicle if you, at any time, gave the stalker a key. It could have been copied without your knowledge.
• Be cautious about carrying weapons. If you have not been trained and do not have the mindset to use a weapon for personal defense, we recommend that you not carry a weapon. The possession of a weapon can lull an untrained person into a false sense of security, and in a worse case scenario, the weapon could be taken away from you and used against you.

Help stop stalking
You can help stop stalking by reporting it. Keep in mind that the offender may be stalking you because the last person he or she stalked did not report the crime. If you or someone you know is in fear of a stalker, report it.