ABSTRACT
This chapter explains what constitutes stalking and discusses law enforcement’s responses to stalking. Stalking involves more than simply following another person before committing a crime. Understanding stalking requires more than simply setting forth a definition of the act. Stalking is a course of conduct that may occur in a wide variety of situations. Cyberstalking is the use of the Internet, e-mail, or other electronic communications devices to stalk another person. Cyberstalking is different from the techniques used by child predators. Child predators are interested in luring the victim into a situation in which they can get the victim’s cooperation in a sexual online activity or get a face-to-face meeting with the victim. One of the most controversial civil tools available to victims of stalking is the use of a temporary restraining order. Restraining orders or protective orders are court orders that prohibit the offender from having any contact with the victim.
