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MCC Daily Tribune Archive

MCC Crime Prevention Tip of the Month (Stalking)


If you are being stalked or threatened by a stranger, acquaintance, current or ex-partner, it is important for you to take it seriously. Stalking is a crime in New York State and it can be a misdemeanor of felony depending upon the level and scope of the abuse. It is important to realize that you do not have to suffer alone and there are steps you can take to protect yourself and end the abuse.

The following should be considered threats to your safety:

·         Being followed by a stranger or acquaintance against your will
·         Receiving threatening, or unwanted e-mail, phone calls, mail, notes, personal contacts, etc.
·         Having your vehicle and/or personal effects tampered with or damaged
·         Observing the stalker being present and following you in your neighborhood, your place of employment, your school, in public places, etc.
·         Tampering of your home, work area, vehicle, workplace in such a fashion that you know the identity of the person doing the tampering
·         Actual injuries or threats of injury to your family, friends, or pets committed by the stalker

How to protect yourself:

·         Document all contacts and/or incidents in detail. Write down what happened, where it happened, and when it happened. Keep a journal of all incidents and contacts
·         Report all contacts and/or incidents to Public Safety of the Police
·         Never initiate contact with the stalker. Never try to engage in conversation either in person or via telephone, e-mail, US mail, or via internet
·         Vary your daily routine. Change travel patterns, adjust times for personal errands, and adjust times and dates used for frequent activities such as restaurants, workout activities, and shopping trips
·         Tell your family, friends, and co-workers about the stalking. Keep them updated about new incidents, changes in personal activities and traveling habits, and travel with another person whenever you can to decrease the possibility of being approached alone and/or attacked by your stalker

If you believe that you are being stalked on or off campus, contact MCC Public Safety at the Brighton campus by calling 292-2911 or at the Damon Campus by calling 262-1414.

Have a safe and enjoyable summer.

Another Crime Prevention message from your MCC Crime Prevention Team

Lee Struble
Public Safety
06/10/2009