Police

As a stalking victim, it is up to you to decide if you wish to involve the police. If you do, it is generally best to do so as early as possible in the course of events. In a life threatening situation,dial 911. At other times, you can notify your local police precinct if you suspect you are being stalked. If you prefer, you may ask to speak to a female police officer, particularly if the harassment has involved sexual assault. You may also feel more comfortable if a friend, relative or legal adviser accompanies you. Most states have victim/witness assistance services via the district attorney's office, sheriff's department or police department. These victim advocates have been trained to help crime victims negotiate the legal process. They will work with victims regardless of whether charges are filed or a perpetrator is apprehended.

In addition to helping to order your thoughts and place less of a burden on your memory in these stressful circumstances, providing documentation of the stalking will assist the police in their investigations. Remember that stalking often results in a complex trail of behaviours over many months or even years, which can present a formidable task for under-resourced law enforcement agencies.