I understand the feeling of being stalked firsthand. It’s unnerving to see the stalker’s name appear repeatedly and the anxiety that comes with realizing they’ve found new ways to contact you. The constant fear that lingers, leading to double-checking locks, hesitating before opening the door, or monitoring social media accounts.
Stalking goes beyond being a mere nuisance; it’s a terrifying and incapacitating experience. It poses serious dangers that are often overlooked. Therefore, the recent announcement of an urgent independent review of stalking laws is crucial. Victims deserve a system that recognizes stalking as a severe crime that can shatter lives and, at its worst, result in tragic outcomes.
Having listened to victims share how stalking has devastated their lives and their frustrations with law enforcement and the justice system, I am dedicated to ensuring that this review brings about tangible changes. Led by Richard Wright KC, a highly experienced criminal barrister, the review will assess the effectiveness of current laws in safeguarding victims and punishing offenders.
The review will also explore the interaction between stalking and harassment laws. Richard’s involvement in the prosecution of Alice Ruggles’ stalker, who tragically took her life, gives him firsthand insight into the devastating impact of such crimes. It will also evaluate if existing laws can adapt to the evolving forms of stalking, particularly those that occur online and through modern technologies.
Stalking isn’t always about someone lurking in the shadows; it can involve monitoring every move through digital platforms and devices. Our legal framework must evolve to address these new forms of harassment. While progress has been made with new legislation enhancing Stalking Protection Orders and providing guidelines for law enforcement to handle online stalking cases, more needs to be done to aid the millions of stalking victims each year.
Our commitment to reducing violence against women and girls is personal and aims to prevent others from enduring similar ordeals. Victims must be believed, safeguarded, and supported. Stalking isn’t just a crime; it’s a precursor to potentially more harm if left unchecked. Let’s not wait for another tragedy like the one that befell Alice Ruggles. Action is needed now to protect individuals from the dangers of stalking.