New Maryland stalking and domestic violence laws effective October 1, 2016
New Maryland laws regarding stalking and domestic violence will take effect October 1, 2016. They have been trying to change the law for about 10 years and now officially this is the year for the change.
The legal definition of stalking will officially grow beyond only physically following someone and will add new language to the law stating that the person charged with stalking “intends to cause or knows or reasonably should have known that the conduct would cause serious emotional distress to another.”
It will also expand the list of harassing and stalking behaviors, such as adding misuse of telephone facilities and equipment, misuse of electronic communication or interactive computer service, revenge porn, and visual surveillance. We are told that technology can be a way for stalkers to get to their victims through social media and e-mail.
The law not only expands the definition of stalking but the crime will also now carry stricter consequences, beyond a misdemeanor offense to a felony.
The Executive Director for the Life Crisis Center in Salisbury, Michele Hughes, says it’s been a long time coming.
Hughes says stalking is illegal in the state of Maryland and for most cases, it’s considered domestic violence but varies case to case.
Hughes tells us that each county in Maryland is required by law to have access to a domestic violence program, which offers legal services and counseling.
When we asked Hughes about any advice she had for victims, she said “We can help you. We can help you to a safety plan, that doesn’t mean you have to leave. If you are uncomfortable with the idea of leaving the relationship but you want to be safe and make your children safe you can call us and we’ll help you.”
Victims and survivors who are targets of these behaviors are encouraged to contact their local domestic violence or sexual assault programs. Hughes also says regardless of where you live, to call 2-1-1. All the 2-1-1 centers in Maryland can connect you with your local domestic violence program.
