Where stalking involves the intentional, malicious and repetitive following or harassing of another person paired with a credible threat, cyberstalking is essentially the same thing only performed on an electronic device like a computer or cell phone. If you have been accused of any kind of stalking, please contact a skilled Vista criminal lawyer like Peter M. Liss as soon as possible.
Cyberstalking is charged under the same law as other types of stalking, but it often takes place in a number of ways that generally do not occur offline. Many cases of online vigilantism are technically considered cyberstalking because one or more persons will frequently post the phone number, address or other personal information of an individual, asking others to harass the person. Other forms of cyberstalking include posting humiliating information about the victim or impersonating him or her online in order to damage his or her reputation when these activities are in conjunction with a credible threat. Additionally, cyberstalking can be paired with other computer crimes, such as revenge porn or identity theft. If you aren’t sure whether a particular behavior can be considered cyberstalking or another computer crime, a Vista defense attorney can help.
Like regular stalking charges, cyberstalking may result in misdemeanor or felony charges and a first offense could result in up to a year in jail or three years in prison. In many cases, the victim may also obtain a restraining order against their harasser, which could result in additional charges and penalties if the order is violated. As you can see, cyberstalking is a serious matter that requires the expertise of a top defense lawyer in Vista.
If you have been charged with cyberstalking, it is critical you do not say anything to police or prosecutors before first speaking with your Vista criminal defense attorney. Please call (760) 643-4050 to schedule a free initial consultation with Peter M. Liss.
Creative Commons Image by Don Hankins
