January is National Stalking Awareness Month!
Stalking is a dangerous pattern of systematic, deliberate behaviors that can have a long-lasting impact for survivors, and is a crime under the laws of all 50 states, District of Columbia, US territories, and Federal government. In Colorado, stalking is charged as a felony upon first offense.
What Does Stalking Look Like?
Stalking can take on several forms, but there are certain tactics that are most frequently used by perpetrators.
Who Does the Stalking?
Despite popular myth, perpetrators of stalking are not simply just “creepy strangers”. In fact, in 85% of stalking cases, the perpetrator is someone known to the victim.
Technology is a Growing Problem in Stalking Cases.
More than twice as many victims are stalked with technology than without. Technology such as phones, tracking devices, and hidden cameras, as well as social media platforms can all become tools utilized to monitor and harass the victim.
What Can We Do About Stalking?
When dealing with stalking, documentation is key. In order to report a case or seek a civil protection order, it is important to document each and every incident you are aware of, including date, time, location, and what occurred.
Arkansas Valley Resource Center believes no one should struggle with stalking alone. Know that 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, AVRC Staff are available to support you.
Help is just a call away!
415 Colorado Avenue, La Junta, CO 81050
(719) 384-7764
TTY: (719) 384-1938
After Hours Colorado Relay dial 711 or 1-800-659-2656
Statistics and infographics provided by the Stalking Prevention, Awareness and Resource Center (SPARC)
https://www.stalkingawareness.org/
AVRC is non-discriminatory agency regarding age, race, religion, color, gender, country of national origin, sexual orientation, mental health status, substance use or economic condition.