CJ 225 Stalking, Predatory Behaviors, and Personal Safety

Lecture Hours: 2
Credits: 2

Provides information regarding stalking, and related behaviors. Covers types of stalkers, current anti-stalking statutes, and personal and professional security measures. Emphasizes the necessity of documenting and reporting this crime. Describes prohibited behavior, threat levels, and the effects of stalking on victims. Discusses current trends in cyberstalking.

Corequisite: CJ 103 with criminal history clearance; or current professional in the field; or consent of instructor.
Student Learning Outcomes:

List the common stalking behaviors.
Describe the various types of stalkers.
Explain common safety measures used against stalkers.
Describe the elements of stalking according to Oregon statutes.
Trace common acts related to domestic violence, animal abuse, and other companion crimes.
Describe the effects of stalking on victims.
Discuss personal and professional security measures.

Content Outline

Definition of a Stalker
- “Red Flag” awareness in relationship
- Relationship to victim
- Obsession
- Rejection
- Intelligence level
- Gender
- Motivation
- Criminal record/prior police contact(s)
- Background with un-reported “ex’s”
Types of Stalking Behaviors
- Unwanted phone communication
- Unwanted letters/cards/flowers/gifts
- Unwanted and unannounced visits
- Criminal trespass/criminal mischief
- Burglary
- Sexual assault
- Companion crimes/homicide
- Animal abuse/killing
- Kidnapping
- Associated targeting of children
Effects of Stalking on Victims
- Suicide
- Eating disorders
- Nightmares
- Indigestion/nausea
- Flashbacks/PTSD
- Weapons
- Associated disorders/emotional stress
- Avoidance/estrangement from friends and family
- Housebound/social anxiety/paranoia
- Alcohol
- Controlled substances/Rx/OTC medications
What Can Stalking Victims Do?
- Document each contact
- Necessity of reporting to law enforcement
- Confront
- Security measures
- Relocate option
- “Go” bag and contents
- Support groups
Police and the Courts
- Statutes
- Anti-stalking requirements
- Protection orders
- Prosecution process/needs
- Sentencing
- Victim Advocacy Programs/Center for Hope & Safety/Simonka Place Women & Children’s Shelter/St. Francis Shelter
Peace of Mind/Surviving