Stalking charges in Tulsa County are crimes that often leads to other, more serious crimes. This means that the 3.4 million victims each year are also at risk for more violent incidents. Further, 25% of stalking victims report their stalkers using some type of technology to track their whereabouts. This includes GPS trackers, social media, and hidden cameras. Few stalkers fit into a single personality profile. In fact, there are all types of personalities that can stalk people. This article will explain the laws regarding stalking charges and the penalties of someone receiving a conviction.
Laws Against Stalking Crimes
In Oklahoma, it is illegal to stalk another person. Under Title 21 §1173, stalking includes the following or harassing of another person by willful or intentional acts. Further, the acts must be sufficient to put a reasonable person in fear of harm. If a person is in fear of their safety due to repeat incidents of harassment or following from another person, they can file stalking charges. It is important to note that the offense can occur in person or over electronic devices such as phones or social media.
Who Issued The Stalking Order
Stalking orders are very similar to protective orders. The primary difference is that stalking does not involve people who are in a family relationship. The person who asked the court to issue a stalking order first filed a Police report. If once filed the Police didn’t ask the District Attorney to issues an arrest warrant the person seeking the order went to protective order court. Once they got the report they showed up to the protective order docket and asked the Judge to issue the order on a temporary basis. Once it is issued on a temporary basis the Judge sets it for a trial on the merits. You will be given notice of this date. Once you are, you must show up to court. If you fail to show a default will be issued against you. Provided that you show, its time to put on a trial. At the trial you or your attorney will present evidence in the form of testimony or other exhibits. The person asking for the stalking order will do the same and most times has an attorney. Its advisable that you have an attorney who has experience with stalking and protective orders.
Penalties for Violating Stalking Orders
As in many other crimes, a first offense is a misdemeanor. In Oklahoma misdemeanor crimes generally come with a 6 months to year jail sentence and/or fines reaching $1,000. Second offenses raise the penalties, especially if it is in violation of a protective order or within 10 years of a first offense. The penalties are then fines reaching anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000. Plus, the penalties increase potential prison time to 5 to 10 years.
Tulsa County Stalking Lawyers Can Help
There are times that stalking charges involve allegations an ex will make in divorce or custody battles. These are bogus and you will need an attorney to fight for your rights. Our attorneys understand that revenge allegations against a person can cause serious problems. Don’t be victim to someone trying to harm you. Call the Tulsa County Lawyers Group for a free and confidential consultation at 918-379-4864. Or you can follow this link to ask an online legal question.
