Many people will recall the film Fatal Attraction starring Michael Douglas and Glenn Close. The film follows a man who has a stalker fixated on him and his family. Things quickly escalate into violence which upends the life of the man and his family. While this film is dramatized, stalking crimes often do escalate into violent crimes and sometimes even murder. This article explains stalking crimes and its range of punishment in Rogers County.
Stalking Crimes in Oklahoma
Oklahoma Law makes stalking crimes illegal. The elements of stalking are under Title 21 §1173. These are:
- following another person or
- harassing another person;
- willfully;
- by using acts that would put a reasonable person in fear of harm.
Thus, if the state can show that you are repeatedly following or harassing a person, you are subject to charges on stalking. The harassment or following can occur in person or over electronic devices. These include phones, computer, or other social media.
SEE OUR BLOG FOR MORE ANSWERS ON THREATENING OR HARASSING PHONE CALLS.
Penalties for Convictions
To be a convicted “stalker” on a first charge means you will face a misdemeanor. Oklahoma usually penalizes misdemeanor stalkingcrimes with
potential prison time of 6 months or less and fines reaching no more than $1,000. However, if you receive a conviction of a second offense or are violating a protective order, then you are facing much more severe penalties. Fines will increase to a possible $10,000 and you also could serve anywhere from 5 to 10 years in prison.
Call Claremore Lawyers
Our attorneys understand that the term “stalking” is often misused in society today. If someone accuses you of being a stalker, call our offices. Your initial consultation is free. As a result, you can feel comfortable with the skills and experience of our attorneys before hiring us. We have the know-how and experience to help you defeat these charges. Call us today.
