Oklahoma is one of the states that divides crimes into various categories, including crimes against a person and crimes against property. Crimes against a person in McAlester involve force or the threat of force.
Stalking in Oklahoma is a crime that instills fear into the victim and as such, it is considered to be a crime against a person. The distinction is one that has a direct effect upon penalties. Crimes against people are almost always punished more severely than crimes against property.
What is Stalking in Oklahoma?
Under Oklahoma law, stalking is defined as the willful, malicious, and repeated following or harassing of another person in such a manner that would causes the victim to feel terrorized, intimidated, threatened, harassed, or molested. (Okla. Stat. tit. 47A § 1173)
Following a person is one method of stalking in Oklahoma. It can make a victim feel afraid for their safety to be constantly followed, especially when the victim is made aware being followed by the perpetrator.
But there are many other methods. Using a telephone or other electronic device to threaten, harass, or cause fear to another is stalking if the victim feels threatened by the behavior.
Mailing packages, having objects delivered to the victim, and the like, is also considered to be stalking behavior.
Penalties for Stalking in Oklahoma
Stalking is often charged as a misdemeanor crime and is punishable by up to one year in jail. However, there are situations in which stalking is charged as a felony.
If you are stalking someone in violation of an existing protective order, you can be charged with a felony count and face up to five years in prison.
Likewise, if you are on probation for a related offense and are caught stalking, or if you are caught within 10 years of a prior stalking offense, the penalties are more severe.
Low-cost Consultation: McAlester Criminal Defense Attorney
If you or someone you know is accused of stalking in Oklahoma, please contact a McAlester criminal defense attorney to discuss your available legal options.
Consult with an experienced attorney at the Wirth Law Office – McAlester today, by calling 918-302-9656.
If you prefer, you can use the box in the upper right-hand corner of this page to send a question or brief message.