Michigan Approves Strict Stalking-Harassment Law

Gov. John Engler on Friday signed the nation’s toughest anti-stalking law, threatening prowlers with up to five years in prison.

The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, makes it a crime to harass and pursue anyone relentlessly and maliciously.

“The message these bills send is clear: Criminal, beware. In Michigan we protect our citizens,” Engler said of the three-bill package. “Your stalking days are over.”

Michigan’s law differs from similar legislation enacted in more than half the states by the severity of its penalty for repeat offenders, prescribing the most prison time and highest fine.

The legislation sailed through the House and Senate after lawmakers heard chilling testimony from dozens of women. Some of those witnesses flanked Engler as he signed the law.

“I’ve won my freedom. This gives me a fighting chance,” said Michelle Ward, who says she is still stalked by a former colleague. “It’s been a roller-coaster ride.”

One in 20 adults will be stalked in their lifetime, researchers say. The Michigan law defines the crime as “malicious harassment which causes substantial mental suffering or distress.”

First offenders would face misdemeanor penalties of up to a year in prison and a $1,000 fine. But repeat stalkers would be guilty of a felony and face up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.