Jason S. Miyares
Attorney General of Virginia

Domestic Violence - Stalking

According to Virginia Code, 18.2-60.3, Stalking is defined as:

Any person who on more than one occasion engages in conduct directed at another person with the intent to place, or with the knowledge that the conduct places, that other person in reasonable fear of death, criminal sexual assault, or bodily injury to that other person or to that other person's family or household member.

 

A stalking conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor. A third or subsequent conviction occurring within 5 years of a conviction for an offense under this section or for a similar offense under the law of any other jurisdiction shall be a Class 6 Felony.

What you can do if you are being stalked:

  • Tell someone. Call the Virginia Family Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-838-8238. Tell a friend or family member about the stalking of alert neighbors and co-workers.

  • Contact the police. Request that the police log every complaint you make, whether they respond to the scene or not, and request a copy of the report.

  • Cut off all communication with the stalker. Tell the stalker in writing to stop the behavior.

  • Keep records of contact. Keep a journal of all contact made by the stalker. A notebook is good way to track the time, date, and location of each contact. It is also helpful to keep a list of witnesses with their names, addresses, and phone numbers. Keep any evidence sent to you but handle it as little as possible.

  • Secure your home. If possible, install a security system in your home. Be aware of potential unsafe areas and make sure you keep your area well lit.

  • As a last resort. You may need to change your phone number or even move from the area where you are currently living.

If you are being stalked online, follow the same guidelines, but also:

  • Get a new email address.

  • Contact your internet service provider (ISP) to report the behavior if you can trace the message(s).

  • Contact the computer crimes unit in the Office of the Attorney General at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Resources:

This information is adapted from materials from the following organizations: