Stalking and Cyberstalking Crimes

The Bureau of Justice Statistics reports that millions of people across the United States who are aged 16 and older are the subject of stalking crimes. Less than a third of these individuals will report the crimes to the police. Still, when stalking and stalking with technology are reported, individuals accused of such crimes can face serious consequences in the state of Louisiana, including criminal charges, the issuance of protective orders against them, and the forfeiture of gun rights.

If you have been arrested for stalking or cyberstalking, this is a serious situation and one that should not be taken lightly. Your freedom is at risk, and so is your reputation. This is why consulting with an attorney can be advantageous.

A stalking and cyberstalking criminal defense attorney will evaluate your case and determine the most effective defense strategy so you can secure the best possible outcome under the circumstances. Depending on the case facts, it could be possible to lessen your charges or have your charges dropped.   

At the ​Law Offices of Philip B. Adams, LLC, our skilled and competent stalking and cyberstalking criminal defense attorney has represented many individuals charged with the most serious crimes.

For more information, contact the Law Offices of Philip B. Adams.

Louisiana Stalking

Stalking is defined as repeatedly and willfully harassing and following another individual or individuals and inflicting fear in them. Usually, individuals who are being stalked will have a sincere concern for their safety and will be frightened about the potential for violence, especially as the stalking persists over the long term. 

Contact by an alleged stalker can occur in many locations, including a private residence, the workplace, restaurants or stores, and more.

When a person is arrested and charged with stalking, having a criminal history can impact and increase the severity of their penalties.

First-Time Stalking Penalties
A first-time stalking penalty can include a fine as high as $1,000 and up to one year in jail. A stalking conviction where a weapon was present will result in a mandatory minimum of one year in jail.

Penalties for Breaking a Stalking Injunction
Breaking the terms of a restraining order or another stalking injunction can result in as many as 90 days in jail or as long as two years. Fines can be as high as $5,000.

Repeat Stalking Convictions
If you are convicted of stalking within seven years of your initial conviction, you will face 180 days to three years in jail and fines as high as $5,000. Continued stalking arrests and convictions will come with escalating fines and jail time. Also, stalking convictions can lead to deportation.

Penalties for Stalking a Child 12 Years Old or Younger
Stalking younger victims comes with heightened penalties, including one to three years in jail and fines from $1,500 to $5,000.


Louisiana Cyberstalking


When the internet and any electronic forms of communication are used to harass or threaten another person, this can be considered cyberstalking in Louisiana. 

Electronic communications can come in the form of:

  • Pictures

  • Videos 

  • Words

  • Signs

  • Signals

  • Data


Electronic communications can be done through the following means

  • Instant messages

  • Group conversations

  • Emails

  • Online message boards


Cyberstalking carries the following penalties that start at a misdemeanor level and increase to the felony level:

First-Time Offenders
First-time offenders can be sentenced to 12 months and fined up to $2,000.

Second-Time Offenders
Second-time offenders who are convicted within seven years of their first conviction can be sentenced to up to three years in prison and fined up to $5,000.

Subsequent Convictions
Subsequent convictions within seven years of a prior conviction may result in a sentence of up to five years and /or a fine of $5,000.
Electronic Devices/Private Property

Electronic devices that were used in cyberstalking crimes can be confiscated.

Call An Experienced Louisiana Stalking and Cyberstalking Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Attorney Adams's top priority is protecting your rights and freedoms from the most grievous penalties when you are charged with stalking or cyberstalking in Louisiana. 

If you were charged with stalking or cyberstalking in Louisiana, you need a committed and experienced stalking and cyberstalking criminal defense attorney on your side. Contact the Law Offices of Philip B. Adams today for a case evaluation.