In Minnesota, stalking is defined as any conduct which intentionally causes the recipient of said conduct to feel frightened, threatened, oppressed, persecuted, or intimidated, though proof of intent is not necessary. Stalking can occur regardless of the relationship between the person acting and the victim of his acts. Read on to learn what you should know about stalking in Minnesota.
Misdemeanor Stalking Lawyer Minneapolis
The following acts fall under the category of misdemeanor stalking:
- Threatening to injure a person or his or her property or rights
- Following or monitoring another’s activities
- Returning to a person’s property without permission
- Repeated telephone calls and text messages
- Repeated mailing of letters, packages, or other deliveries
- Making false allegations against a peace officer
Felony Stalking Lawyer Minneapolis
Some acts constitute a felony and are punishable by a fine up to $10,000 and up to five years in prison. These include any act described in the misdemeanor section that:
- Was performed because of the victim’s race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, or national origin
- Occurred when the perpetrator is impersonating someone else
- Was committed using a dangerous weapon
- Was committed against someone younger than age 18 when the perpetrator is more than 36 months older than the victim
- Was committed with the intent to influence a judicial proceeding
- Was committed against someone younger than age 18 when the perpetrator is more than 36 months older than the victim with sexual or aggressive intent (punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $20,000.
Contact us to learn more about stalking laws in Minnesota.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this article does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Please contact attorney Kirk Anderson for an initial consultation.