About Stalking

Stalking is a course of conduct directed at a specific person that is unwelcome, and would cause a reasonable person to feel fear. Stalking can also be repetitive and menacing conduct, purposely or knowingly causing emotional distress, or pursuing, following, harassing, and/or interfering with the peace and/or the safety of another. Stalking behaviors include, but are not limited to:

  • Contacting you excessively (phone, texts, Instagram, Snapchat, email, etc), especially if you have asked the person to stop
  • Sending you unwanted gifts/cards/letters
  • Following you or showing up unexpectedly
  • Damaging your property
  • Threatening your family, friends, or pets
  • Threatening you with physical harm
  • Trying to publicly humiliate you with information (true or false)
  • Following you on social media sites to keep up with your activities

If you are experiencing stalking and feel that you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

Fact vs. Fiction

Fiction

  • People are typically stalked by a stranger or a random individual.
  • Stalking isn’t a big deal and individuals who experience stalking should either ignore it or make it more clear that the stalker should stop, then it will no longer be a problem.
  • Stalking is only when someone follows and watches another individual in person

Fact

  • Most people are stalked by someone they know, and often a partner or ex-partner.
  • Stalking unfortunately can often continue or escalate if the person being stalked does not get the support and protection they need. Advocates can help someone being stalked navigate their resources and find ones that are most beneficial for their situation.
  • Many of those who experience stalking are stalked through apps and social media.

Survivor Support

If you or someone you care about has experienced stalking there are many resources available:

  • Confidential advocate – to schedule a meeting with the confidential advocate, email AK Krauss at akrauss3@elon.edu or call 336-278-5009.
  • Safeline – 24/7 confidential advocacy phone line available at 336-278-3333.
  • Counseling services – located at the R. N. Ellington Center for Health and Wellness, 301 South O’Kelly Avenue. To make an appointment go to their website.

For more resources and options for support, please go to the Get Help Now page.