Wednesday, April 8, 1998
The University Daily Kansan
Section A·Page 5
Stalking victims can find help
By Ronnie Wachter wachter@kansan.com
Kansan staff writer
Some University of Kansas students consider the term "stalking" to be the pursuit of a potential romantic interest.
But Lawrence police officers have a more serious view of stalking and the effects it can have on KU students.
"The crime itself is usually a weak felony," Lawrence police officer Tom Moore said. "But these things can escalate into bigger crimes. I think one of the things that's most traumatic for the victims is the mental anguish it can cause."
Nancy Williams, director of fund raising and community affairs for Women's Transitional Care Services, said that anyone who thought they were being stalked should take action to avoid any trauma or danger.
"My advice is that if a woman is being stalked or followed in any form, she should call our crisis hotline or at least make a report with the police," she said.
Williams said that many stalking incidents were the result of broken relationships, especially couples who previously had lived together.
If people think that they are being stalked by someone they used to live with, there are special actions they can take to protect themselves, she said.
"They can file a Protection From Abuse order with the police or the district attorney's office, if they've lived together," she said. "That will give you a temporary restraining order against the person you believe is stalking you. That goes into effect immediately." she said.
After the victim has been given the order, a district court judge will hear the victim's case within 72 hours. Williams said. At the hearing, the judge will decide if the victim needs a longer restraining order against the alleged stalker, she said.
But William is said that if a person was being stalked by someone with whom she has not lived, the law did not offer as much protection.
"If it's a person out of the blue, I hate to say it, but she doesn't have many options." Williams said. "There isn't much the police can do."
Moore said that the Lawrence Police Department conducted safety courses six to 12 times each year for groups of women who requested them.
"That's something we like to do, to help people know what to do if they feel they are in a dangerous situation," he said. "We have a couple of female officers at those to help demonstrate safety techniques."
Students who need help may call the Women's Transitional Care hot line at 843-3:33.
KANSAS STATUTE 21-3438
Stalking is an intentional, malicious and repeated following or harassment of another person and making a credible threat with the intent to place such a person in reasonable fear for such person's safety.
Tips recommended by police if you think you're being stalked.
When shopping:
Be aware of your surrounding when parking, stay in well-lit areas close to the entrances.
Be leery of people in vehicles who are simply watching the parking lots-they could be watching for a victim
While walking to and from parking lots into stores, be conscious of your surroundings and what is going on. Make it a point to speak to people you see because they'll remember you. Criminals are less likely to bother someone who is observant because criminals don't want to be remembered.
If shopping carts are available use them. They not only can be used as a barrier between you and an aggressor, but also will allow you to keep your hands free.
When traveling:
■ When you are driving in town, keep a window cracked slightly. This is not only refreshing but also allows you to hear what is going on around you.
When At Home:
When traveling alone and staying at motels or hotels, ask for all keys to the room when you check in. Let attendant know that no one will be joining you later.
Keep shrubs and trees trimmed so they don't obscure entrances and window. These are prime hiding places for criminals.
If you have been away notice anything different about your residence when you return: lights on, doors open, gates open, etc. Go to a neighbor's home and call police. DO NOT GO INSIDE
If you notice someone follows you while you are returning home, don't go home; drive to the nearest open business, fire department, police station, etc. and go inside.
Source: Kansas Bureau of Investigations
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KU Cultural India Club Presents
TARANG
(Spring Concert of Indian Classical Instrumental Music)
6:30 p.m. Sunday, 12th April 1998 Swarthout Recital Hall, Murphy Hall The University of Kansas, Lawrence
Pandit Moniali Nag - Sitar (String)
Ustad Ali Ahmad Hussain Khan - Shahnai (Indian Oboe)
Subhen Chatterjee - Tabla (Percussion)
Tickets: Call SUA 864-3477 or
Amit 832-9061, Sridhar 865-0893
$4 (members), $5 (KU students), $8 (others)
STUDENT SENATE