Crime of Power

Just before the New Year, President Biden signed a proclamation declaring January National Stalking Awareness Month. At The Hive, we’re relieved to know the crime of stalking and the millions of people across the nation who have or are enduring it are getting the increased attention and support they deserve. 

At its simplest, stalking is unwanted harassment, threats, and aggressive attention that causes a reasonable person to feel fear. It often lurks in the shadows, unsettling victims with psychological torment and leading many to isolation, anxiety, and depression. In some cases, it takes place entirely online. 

In South Carolina, a person convicted of stalking is guilty of a felony and fined a maximum of $5,000, faces up to five years in jail, or both. At the same time, stalking is harder to prove than physical abuse, so victims must be diligent about reporting and documentation.

Our work with stalking survivors involves Emergency and Economic Relief, Counseling, and a host of wraparound services that aid in advocacy, legal, and emotional support. And because stalkers continually change their tactics, we do our part to stay in the know. 

Examples of Stalking

• Making threats against someone

• Non-consensual communication, like repeated phone calls or text messages

• Repeated physical or visual closeness

• Posting threatening information about someone on the internet

• Installing video cameras to get access to someone’s personal life

• Using GPS or other software tracking systems to monitor someone without their consent

• Using someone’s computer to spy on them and track their activity

What You Can Do

• Call 911 

• Confide in Others

• Connect with an Advocate

• Document Every Encounter

• End All Contact

• Create a Safety Plan

• Teach Your Children What to Do in an Emergency

By illuminating this often-violent criminal pattern of behavior, we are increasing awareness, prevention, and prosecution. Let’s bring hope back to the lives of South Carolina stalking victims.

South Carolina Legal Services

Call 1-888-346-5592 or apply online for help at http://www.lawhelp.org/sc/online-intake

The Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center (SPARC) offers a variety of information related to stalking, including information on stalking, safety planning, and other resources.

Technology Safety & Privacy: A Toolkit for Survivors from the National Network to End Domestic Violence contains safety tips, information, and privacy strategies for survivors using technology.

Email hello@thehivecc.org to learn more about our efforts and impact.