Stalking

***This page is under construction. Further information will be forthcoming.***

Stalking is governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265 Section 43. It is a felony punishable by a maximum of 5 years in state prison or a fine up to $1,000, or 2.5 years in a house of correction, or by both jail and a fine.

Stalking is defined as willfully and maliciously engaging in a pattern of conduct/series of acts over a period of time directed at a specific person, that seriously annoys or alarms that person, and that would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress, and makes a threat with the intent of placing that person in imminent fear of death or bodily injury. Conduct here includes contact made through mail, telephone, internet communications, instant messages, and others.

Aggravating factors, such as this occurring in violation of restraining order or no-contact order, can make the potential penalties higher.