Stalking: Texas Penal Code §42.07

What is Stalking?

Stalking is a serious crime that can have a significant impact on the victim's life. In Texas, stalking is defined as "knowingly engaging in conduct that is intended to harass, annoy, alarm, abuse, torment, or embarrass another person and that serves no legitimate purpose." This conduct can include following the victim, making unwanted phone calls or sending unwanted messages, damaging the victim's property, or even threatening the victim.

Penalties for Stalking

The penalties for stalking in Texas vary depending on the severity of the offense. For a first-time offense, stalking is a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. For a second-time offense, stalking is a state jail felony, which is punishable by up to two years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000. For a third or subsequent offense, stalking is a third-degree felony, which is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Impact of Stalking

Stalking can have a devastating impact on the victim's life. Victims of stalking often experience fear, anxiety, and depression. They may also experience difficulty sleeping, eating, and concentrating. In some cases, victims of stalking may even be forced to change their jobs or homes.

How to Report Stalking

If you are being stalked, it is important to report the stalking to the police immediately. You should also keep a record of all contact that you have with the stalker, including phone calls, text messages, and emails. This record will be helpful to the police when they investigate the stalking.

Resources for Victims of Stalking

There are a number of resources available to victims of stalking. These resources include:

• The National Stalking Resource Center: 1-800-FYI-CALL (1-800-394-2255)
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)
• The Texas Council on Family Violence: 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)

Additional Information

For more information on stalking, please visit the following websites:

• The National Stalking Resource Center: https://www.stalkingawareness.org/
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline: https://www.thehotline.org/
• The Texas Council on Family Violence: https://www.tcfv.org/