Stalking
Stalking Charges Defense in Houston: Brazoria, Ft. Bend, Galveston, Harris & Montgomery Counties
Did you know that being a stalker is one of the most complex and least reported crimes in Texas and across the United States? Each year, more than 6 million cases related to intimidation are either investigated or prosecuted, and efforts to provide uniformity in enforcement and prosecution are often challenged by numerous legal aspects.
Stalkers can be prosecuted at the federal and state levels, but this does not make it easy to define as a crime. Fear and intimidation are at the heart of this offense, which can be caused by following someone around, displaying obsessive attention towards specific individuals, or harassment.
Severity of Intimidation in Houston
According to the Texas Penal Code, criminal stalker charges may range from a Class B misdemeanor to a third degree felony. Harassment, for example, can be prosecuted as a Class B misdemeanor if it only involves teasing, propagating rumors or online behaviors that may be construed as Internet stalking. Following someone around, however, could result in a jail sentence of up to one year and a sizable fine.
Obsessive attention that does not lead to intimidation is not usually considered a stalker charge in Houston, but other behaviors such as implying physical threats or damaging property with the intention of provoking fear might be considered grounds for prosecution. When behaviors such as cyber stalking are prosecuted jointly with presumption of violating a protective order, felony charges may be filed.
Effective Defenses in Harassment Cases
Following individuals and harassment cases are often handled by legal professionals experienced in domestic and family law situations. Complicated relationships and love triangles often result in hurt feelings and irrational behaviors for those involved. Stalker complaints can be rather one-sided. When this happens, the usual strategy is to get the case dismissed.
Due to the complex nature of cyber stalking as a crime, criminal defense attorneys in Texas review these cases from various angles. The burden on the prosecution is to prove intent, which may be enhanced by a feud or an emotional disagreement. In the end, a successful defense against intimidation charges will involve proving that the alleged fear in the complaint is actually unfounded.
Contact a Stalker Lawyer Today
If you have been accused of stalking charges and are in need to legal assistance, then pick up the phone and contact The Law Office of Greg Tsioros at (832) 752-5972.