Stalking in Rhode Island

Stalking in Rhode Island

If you have recently been charged with criminal stalking in the state of Rhode Island, its important to know that it can be difficult to defend against such charges in a court of law. The reason stalking cases can be challenging is because evidence typically consists of little more than witness testimony, and lacks any physical evidence to corroborate a story. Despite a lack of hard evidence, the act of stalking conjures strong feelings in most individuals, and a simple accusation can be enough to land a conviction.

What is Stalking?

The state of Rhode Island defines stalking as unwanted harassing, contacting, or meddling with another individual against their will. Stalking often consists of obsessive behaviors such as unwanted: 

• Following 
• Waiting 
• Calling 
• Emailing 
• Leaving written notes 
• Text Messaging 
• Leaving objects 
• Video Voyeurism

While most of these behaviors are common in any social environment, it is important to realize that they may be misunderstood or frightening to another individual, and in certain cases what may begin as innocent intentions, end with criminal charges. The penalties for a stalking conviction can be very serious, and it is important that you contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately.

If someone is stalking you.

If you or anyone you know are concerned that someone may be stalking you, it is imperative that you dial 911 and contact the authorities immediately. It is also important that you do not tamper with or destroy any evidence by cleaning, discarding, deleting or modifying it in any way until instructed to do so by the authorities.

Stalking convictions in Rhode Island

First offenders convicted of stalking in Rhode Island will be charged with a misdemeanor, pay fines not exceeding $500 and possible imprisonment not exceeding one year. Second offenders will be charged with a felony, including up to two years imprisonment and up to $6,000 in fines.

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If you have questions about this posting or are interested in Criminal Defense, Divorce, or Immigration Law in RI contact Rhode Island Criminal Defense Lawyer John E. MacDonald at 401-421-1440.

To learn more about The Law Office of John MacDonald, please visit his website at AggressiveLegalServices.com.