What is stalking?
Definition
Under Canada’s Criminal Code, Criminal Harassment, or Stalking, includes:
repeatedly following from place to place the other person or anyone known to them;
repeatedly communicating with, either directly or indirectly, the other person or anyone known to them;
besetting or watching the dwelling-house, or place where the other person, or anyone known to them, resides, works, carries on business or happens to be; or
engaging in threatening conduct directed at the other person or any member of their family
Things to look for:
- Constant contact or knowledge of your activity
- Excessive monitoring of your location
- Unwanted gifts, letters, cards, or other items
- Following your movements and showing up unwanted
- Collecting private information about you
- Threatening you, your friends, or your family
Ways to Prevent and Intervene
For Survivors (you know what's best, these are suggestions and they may not work in your situation):
- It's not your fault
- Do not communicate with or respond to your stalker
- Keep any evidence of stalking, including texts, notes, photographs, voicemails, etc.
- Inform the police of your stalker - if in immediate danger, contact 911
- Consider getting a court order to prohibit contact
- Develop a safety plan in case of an emergency – what to do if confronted by your stalker, alternative housing arrangements, avoid travelling alone
- Inform your friends, family, co-workers, and other community members of the stalking, and how they may be able to support your safety
- Contact a crisis, domestic violence, or victim service agency for more information and support in developing a safety plan
For Friends, Family, and Co-Workers of Stalking Victims:
- If you know someone who may be engaging in stalking behaviour, speak with them directly about how their behaviour is harmful
- If someone you know continues to engage in stalking behaviour, consider contacting the police to report their actions
- If someone you know is being stalked, be sure to listen, show support, and do not blame the victim for the crime
- Provide opportunities for the victim and allow them to choose how they address the stalking behaviour
- Always ensure your own safety when supporting a victim of stalking
Resources and Sources
Outside of the Shadows - A Project on Criminal Harassment in Canada.