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.
According to SPARC, 1 in 6 women have experienced stalking in their life while 1 in 17 men have experienced stalking.
SPARC also notes that less than 40% of stalking victims report their experience to law enforcement.
If you feel that you are being stalked, you are encouraged to reach out to local law enforcement. You can also start keeping a log of every incident including date, time, what happened and where it took place.
Another useful tip to try, doing daily tasks out of normal order. This may thwart the stalker.
For more resourceful tips on how to protect yourself and others from a potential stalker, check out stalkingawareness.org.
