What Are Florida’s Stalking Laws? - Stalkers Beware

Stalking is a criminal offense in every state and a serious offense in Florida. Stalking involves invading another’s privacy and instilling fear in them. Those convicted of stalking can expect to spend at least one full year in jail.

What is Stalking?

Stalking is Florida code Section 784.048 and refers to pursuing or approaching stealthily and considered a pattern of following, watching, and monitoring another person. It is repeated harassment that creates a credible threat of harm. Stalking intends to harass, intimidate, or cause that person's emotional duress.

Stalking is a 1st-degree misdemeanor, and aggravated stalking is a 3rd-degree felony.

Victims in Florida can petition for a restraining order (order of protection), a document issued by the court that requires that the stalker refrains from contacting or pursuing a victim and carries up to five years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines.

Stalking Includes:

• Following someone, both one-time or on a routine basis;
• Driving past or randomly showing up at someone’s residence, place of work, or school;
• (Cyberstalking) - Monitoring a person’s computer, cell phone, or social networking activity;
• Monitoring a person’s location with a GPS device on their vehicle;
• Sending unwanted letters, gifts, or emails;
• Unwanted contact via phone calls and text messages;
• Secretly videotaping or photographing someone;
• Gathering information about a person without their permission via public records, internet searches, or by contacting the person’s friends and family members;
• Threatening to harm the victim’s friends, family members, or pets, or even the victim themselves; and
• Damaging the person’s home, vehicle, or other property.

Is Stalking Considered a Misdemeanor of a Felony?

A person who repeatedly and maliciously follows or harasses another person is guilty of a first-degree misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in prison and a $1,000 fine. If the stalker willfully and maliciously follows and harasses another individual while make a credible threat to cause fear or harm, it is considered a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years and a $5,000 fine.

Ronald Chapman

Ronald Chapman has a thorough understanding of Florida’s stalking laws and helps his clients fight the stalking charges brought against them.. Ronald Chapman is an experienced defense attorney who knows the Florida criminal court system's ins and outs and is dedicated to his clients. Ronald Chapman can help you with your case.

Defense Attorney West Palm Beach

Ronald Chapman practices criminal defense in both State and Federal Courts within the State of Florida. Since 1990, Mr. Chapman has been representing people accused of committing various types of crimes. If you are facing criminal charges in Florida, Ronald Chapman can help.
Schedule your FREE Consultation! Call (561) 832-4348 or visit his website.

Visit us at https://www.justiceflorida.com/ You can also connect with the West Palm Beach Criminal Defense Office online today! Ronald Chapman, an experienced criminal defense lawyer, dedicated to defending your rights. Contact him today to begin to discuss your case.

Ronald S. Chapman, P.A.
400 Clematis Street, Suite 206
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
561-832-4348

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