NCJ Number
169494
Date Published
1996
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article summarizes the legislative history of criminal law dealing with stalking, particularly in the United States, and the recent introduction of efforts to combat stalking in a number of Australian States.
Abstract
The essence of stalking behavior is intentionally harassing, threatening and/or intimidating a person by following them about, sending them gifts, telephoning them, waiting outside their house, and similar actions. Growing concern about this behavior in Australia has been caused by its prevalence in domestic violence cases. South Australia's stalking legislation was enacted in 1994. Stalking is punishable by imprisonment for a maximum period of 3 years, and specified circumstances of aggravation take the applicable maximum to 5 years. This means that both offenses are minor indictable offenses that may be tried summarily unless the accused elects trial by jury. The legislation contains requirements concerning conduct and fault, circumstances of aggravation, and other provisions. The article also describes some features of stalking legislation enacted by New South Wales and Western Australia. Bibliography