In the most basic terms, stalking is unwanted pursuit, following, or harassment.

It is a unique crime because the stalker usually has only one intended victim. Stalkers are obsessed with controlling the victim's actions and feelings. They believe that they can achieve this by threatening, harassing and, in some instances, harming their vicitms.

Notify Law Enforcement: If you believe you are being stalked, call the police right away. Be sure to tell them about any previous action taken and the results (i.e., the stalker was warned to stay away from you). Consider obtaining a cellular phone. In the event that you are being followed while driving, you can call 911 immediately and document the incident as it is happening. (911 cell phone may be available at your nearest crisis center). It is important to get the docket number or file number of your complaint, as well as the name of the reporting officer so that you can follow up on the complaint.

Arrests can only be made if the stalker has already been warned by the police to stay away from you. If there is already a restraining order in place, the police must arrest the stalker. In the event of an arrest, the stalker will likely be bonded and released. Ask that a condition of the bond be no contact with you. Obtain copies of all documents and the name of the judge.

Document everything yourself: Record witnesses' names, dates, times, location, and what the stalker was doing, saying, wearing, driving (license plate no.), etc. If it can be done safely take pictures of the stalker.

Tell family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers: Provide them with a description of the stalker. Ask them to watch for the stalker, to document everything listed above, and to give the written account to you.

Save all written material, legal documents, and telephone messages: Save and date all cards, letters, notes and envelopes from the stalker. Obtain and keep copies of warrants, protective orders, court orders, etc.

Report threatening calls to the telephone company. Make use of your provider's tracing system and Caller ID. Dial *57 immediately after receiving a harassing phone call, and the call will be traced for a small fee. Log the date and time of each successfully traced call.

It is against the law in the state of NH for someone to:

• follow another person from place to place more than once with no legitimate purpose with the intent to make the person afraid, or if this behavior would cause a "reasonable person" to be afraid
• appear more than once with no legitimate purpose at or around a person's home, work or other place where the person can be found, with the intent to make a person afraid, or if this behavior would cause a "reasonable person" to be afraid
• intimidate another by causing substantial emotional distress and to threaten another person with death or bodily injury
• follow someone from place to place if there is a restraining order or bail order against the follower. If a restraining order or bail order is in effect, the follower is also prohibited from showing up at or near any place described in either order

If you think you are being followed from place to place, or if you are being threatened or intimidated by someone, it is important that you begin to take the necessary steps to maximize your safety.

Utilize the law enforcement community and courts.

Obtain a Restraining Order.

Change the locks of your home and/or car.

Avoid walking alone--always be aware of your surroundings.

Obtain a post office box--give your address and phone number to as few people as possible.

Get an unlisted telephone number.

Alternate daily driving routes and keep car doors locked at all times, even when the car is in use.

Park in well-lit areas, obtain a locking gas cap, and always visually check the front and rear passenger areas before entering your vehicle.

Know the locations of both the police and fire stations.

Keep an emergency bag packed with clothing, money, emergency telephone numbers, toys for your children, etc.

Post a "No Trespassing" sign on the edge of your property where it is clearly visible.

Some victims of stalking may also choose to relocate. If you do, do not leave a "paper trail." Don't have anything forwarded (mail, newspapers, magazine subscriptions, etc.)

Call the Social Security Office and request that your Social Security Number be changed, if you can prove that the stalker is using it to find you.