Recently, I appeared on the first of many scheduled talk shows and podcasts concerning stalking. This is an important issue that has adversely affected me for several years. As many of you know, I was the victim of stalking by a convicted child sex offender felon--a pedophile with whom I had absolutely no romantic relationship. Like most stalkers, mine is a vexatious litigant who abuses the court system as a way to keep in touch with his victims. My stalker sued me for trademark infringement over my book, movie, and production company title all the way to the Supreme Court of the United States. Thankfully, he lost his appeal but not before causing me and many others great harm.
While completing my Social Justice degree and earning certificates from Harvard University, I was tasked with writing an in-depth thesis on the topic of criminal law and stalking. The subject matter wasn't difficult because I was a stalking victim. I knew the majority of stalking statutes have proven to be way too broad and ambiguous. Additionally, prosecutors and other justice officials face a daunting task of trying to follow a legal entanglement of elements defined in the laws in order to charge stalkers with the crime of stalking. A significant problem with anti-stalking laws is that although many are similar in each state, the language and standards for statues in each state vary widely. Therefore, what would be deemed stalking in one state is contradictory in another. It is no wonder that stalking is one of the most underreported crimes in America. Victims are well aware that the battle for justice is all uphill. Stalking is rarely treated as a serious offense and often victims are mocked by those in the justice system who feel it is just a nuisance crime.
Moreover, victims are discouraged by the lack of response by officials in the justice system to take the crime seriously. Worst yet, from personal experience, I knew that victims have another worry when the crime is reported. Often the perpetrator isn't apprehended for long. The stalker, during this brief incarceration, has only one thing in mind—revenge on the person who put them there. Often, this causes an escalation in violent events against the victim when the stalker is released. I can understand why victims remain silent. I did several times out of fear of retaliation. It is hard to articulate what it is like to be silenced out of survival. But I refuse to be silent any longer.
I am sharing my stalking story and how a complacent justice system allowed it to continue. I have found peace and a sense of freedom in the ownership of my voice. By speaking out, I hope to empower others to come forward. To tell their stories and to work with me in the battle for stricter laws.
My first appearance will air on July 21, 2020. I'll post links soon.
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