Tulsa, Oklahoma Stalking Charges

Even though fist-offense stalking is only a misdemeanor under Oklahoma law, a stalking conviction can severely tarnish your criminal record.  A stalking conviction will most likely remain on your permanent criminal record, which may inhibit your ability to gain employment and qualify for certain types of housing and loans, and stalking charges can also interfere with your gun ownership rights. With the increased use of the Internet and computer technology in general, Oklahoma law now includes cyberstalking as well.

The Legal Definitions of Stalking and Cyberstalking

Oklahoma law defines stalking as the intentional and malicious following or harassing of another person that causes fear, intimidation, fright as well as feelings of terror, harassment and/or molestation.  To qualify as stalking, there must be at least two such instances that are both unsolicited by the victim and without the consent of the victim.  Additionally, there must be a disregard for the victim’s desire for the contact to end.  Some common examples of stalking activities include following and/or regularly appearing uninvited to a person’s workplace and/or home, consistently contacting a person and sending any type of electronic message to a person.  In a stalking case, these types of contact persist even after repeated requests to stop.

Oklahoma law now also recognizes internet stalking.  Cyberstalking is similar to traditional stalking, but the contact occurs electronically.  Cyberstalking activities include any type of electronic message such as email, texting, and social networking posts and/or messages.

Punishment for Stalking

A first-offense stalking conviction is a misdemeanor that is punishable by up to one year in the county jail as well as up to a $1,000 fine.  However, a second or subsequent stalking within a ten-year period is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in the Oklahoma State Penitentiary as well as a maximum fine of $10,000.

Contacting An Attorney

Being charged with stalking—even a first-offense stalking charge—is a serious legal matter that can have a permanent impact on your life.  If you are facing a stalking charge, it’s important to have a qualified criminal defense attorney on your side to protect your rights and preserve your future.  For a free, no-obligation review of your cyber stalking case from the team at Edge Law Firm, fill out our online form.

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