Stalking
Stalking is the willful, malicious, and repeated following or harassing of another person. It is a pattern of behavior or conduct directed at a specific person that causes the victim to fear for his or her safety or for the safety of loved ones. Montana’s anti-stalking law (45-5-220) clearly prohibits both physical and electronic stalking. Are you being harassed or stalked online? Check out our Media Harassment and Cyber Stalking page for helpful tips on how to protect yourself.
Stalking behaviors include:
- Following
- Unwanted telephone calls
- Unwanted letters, e-mails, or other forms of communication/messaging
- Unwanted or threatening gifts
- Damage to property
- Appearing at a place of residence, school, or work
- threats (a threat does not have to be verbal)
If someone is stalking you:
- If you fear immediate danger, contact 911 now.
- Write down everything that happens and include: dates, times, locations, witnesses if any, and a detailed description of what happened. The Stalking Resource Center offers a downloadable staking incident log.
- Seek support from a SARC advocate. Call 243-6559.
- File a report with UM Public Safety or Missoula Police Department.
- If you wish, contact the Missoula Crime Victim Advocate Office for a Temporary Order of Protection at 258-4630. A SARC advocate can assist you in this process.
- Tell your RA, roommates, friends, and family about the problem and the importance fo keeping your personal information private. They can also provide support for you and look out for you.
- Be clear and assertive in demanding to be left alone.
- Remember that the stalker's behavior is not your fault.
- Do not walk alone. Ask friends to walk with you or call the UM Escort Service at 243-2777.