Stalking
A pattern of repeated, unwanted conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel frightened or threatened.
Stalking is a crime that involves repeatedly following, monitoring, or threatening someone in a way that would make a reasonable person feel afraid. In Minnesota, stalking includes physically following someone, showing up uninvited at their home or workplace, making repeated unwanted contact, monitoring them online or through technology, and making direct or indirect threats.
Minnesota treats stalking seriously. A first offense can be charged as a gross misdemeanor, and repeat offenses or stalking that involves aggravating factors (such as possessing a weapon or targeting a minor) can be charged as a felony. Victims can also seek harassment restraining orders or orders for protection to get immediate legal protection.
Why it matters: Stalking often escalates over time and can precede violent behavior. Taking early legal action — such as seeking a restraining order and reporting the behavior to police — can help protect victims and create a documented record of the conduct.
Example: Over several weeks, a person’s ex-partner repeatedly drives past their home, sends dozens of unwanted messages, and shows up at their workplace. The victim reports the behavior to police, and the county attorney charges the ex-partner with felony stalking.
Criminal charges, restraining order cases, situations involving persistent following or monitoring