For the most part, we don’t mind a little extra attention every now and then. Unfortunately, there is a point where a level of unwanted attention starts to feel frightening or even physically threatening. In order to prevent stalking, punish stalkers, and protect citizens, the Magnolia State has enacted specific anti-stalking statutes. Here is a brief overview stalking laws in Mississippi.
Stalking Statutes in Mississippi
State stalking laws can differ, in terms of how they are worded, the behavior they prohibit, and how they are enforced. For example, a conviction for Mississippi’s stalking law can lead to three years in jail and a $2,000 fine. Mississippi’s stalking statutes are listed in the table below.
| Code Section | 97-3-107 |
| Stalking Defined as | Willful, malicious, and repeated following or harassing or threatening with intent to place in reasonable fear of death or bodily injury. |
| Punishment/Classification | Jail maximum 1 year and/or fine maximum $1,000. If violates protective order or restraining order: jail maximum 1 year and/or fine maximum $1,500 |
| Penalty for Repeat Offense | If within 7 years and against same victim and involving act of violence or a credible threat: jail maximum 3 years and/or fine maximum $2,000 |
| Arrest or Restraining Order Specifically Authorized by Statute? | - |
| Constitutionally Protected Activities Exempted? | Yes |
Stalking
The simplest way to understand stalking is that it manifests as an unwanted pursuit of another person. The behaviors prohibited by stalking laws can include everything from simply following a person to making harassing phone calls or leaving objects at a person’s home or workplace.
Mississippi law defines stalking as a course of conduct directed at a specific person that the alleged stalker knows or should know would cause a reasonable person to fear for his or her own safety, the safety of another person, or damage or destruction of his or her property. In many cases, targets of stalking were once involved in romantic relationships with their stalkers and might also be victims of domestic violence. In addition to its stalking law, Mississippi also has protective orders that can help protect victims of stalking and domestic abuse from further harm.
Mississippi Stalking Laws: Related Resources
Confronting a stalker, and the legal process to protect yourself, can seem confusing and frightening. You can consult with a Mississippi criminal law attorney in your area if you would like legal assistance regarding a possible stalking or protective order matter. You can also find more resources and information on this topic by visiting FindLaw’s sections on Harassment and Domestic Violence.
