Cyberstalking can take many different forms, but in the broadest sense, it can be defined as electronic harassment. The offense can include the use of e-mail, the Internet, or other telecommunication technologies to harass and intimidate another person or group. It may include threats, solicitation for sex, and identity theft.
Stalking charges are always taken seriously by Utah prosecutors. If accused of cyberstalking, an individual can be charged with expensive fines and face possible jail time at the state level or federal level. Aside from legal consequences, those convicted of stalking can have a hard time obtaining employment or a home loan. This is why it is important that to have a skilled and knowledgeable defense attorney by your side. When you choose Susanne Gustin, Attorney at Law, you can be confident that you’ll receive quality representation for your case.
Utah Cyber Crime Attorneys in Salt Lake City
Having a cyberstalking offense on your record can be damaging to your future. That is why it’s important to act quickly today to avoid approaching consequences. As a Salt Lake City crimes defense attorney Susanne Gustin has 27 years of experience helping those facing cybercrime charges. She will zealously work in your defense.
Susanne Gustin, Attorney at Law serves several areas throughout the state of Utah include Salt Lake County and Davis County, including Salt Lake City, West Valley City, West Jordan, Sandy, Layton and Bountiful. Your first consultation is free of charge, so call 801-243-2814 today. Utah cybercrime attorney Susanne Gustin is prepared to take your call.
Information Center
- What is Cyberstalking in Utah?
- Cyberstalking Federal Crime Penalties
- Additional Resources for Cyberstalking
What is Cyberstalking in Utah?
Per Utah Code 76-9-201, a person can be charged with electronic communication harassment, also known as cyberstalking, if they post personal identifying information of another person in a public online site. The statute also applies if the defendant has an intent to abuse, threaten, or disrupt the other person utilizing the Internet.
Some examples of cyberstalking include:
- Sending controlling or threatening messages or emails
- Messaging the victim repeatedly
- Attempting to extort explicit pictures
- Releasing the victim’s confidential information online
- Tracking the target’s online movements by installing tracking devices
- Using technology to blackmail the victim
- Posting rude comments online
- Following the victim online by joining the same groups they are in
- Creating fake accounts to follow the defendant on the Internet
- Releasing the victim’s confidential information online
- Sending the victim sexually explicit pictures of themselves with the goal of threatening them
Cyberstalking is considered a class B misdemeanor. A person convicted of this type of misdemeanor can face up to six months in jail and be required to pay up to $1,000 in fines. A second or subsequent offense of electronic harassment is a class A misdemeanor. Class A misdemeanors are punishable by one year in jail and up to $2,500 in fines.
Cyberstalking Federal Crime Penalties
According to 18 U.S. Code § 2261A, an individual can be charged with cyberstalking if they utilize a interactive computer service or electronic communication service to conduct activity that places a person in reasonable fear of death, serious bodily injury, or substantial emotional distress. The United States law states the actions must be intentional.
Committing a cyberstalking crime at the federal level is a serious matter. The offense is punishable by up to 5 years of imprisonment and up to a $250,000 fine. A life sentence can also be imposed if the cyberstalking results in the death of a victim.
Additional Resources for Cyberstalking
Utah Code: Cyberstalking – Click the link to view Utah Code 76-9-201 which constitutes the electronic communication harassment offense. The webpage lists definitions related to the term and specifies penalties. According to Utah law, electronic communication harassment is a class B misdemeanor.
FBI: Cyberstalking – Visit the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) website to read about two federal cases that illustrate consequences of sextortion. The page explains what is cyberstalking and cyber extortion. It also lists penalties for the offense.
Cyberstalking Lawyers in Salt Lake City
If you or someone you know have been accused of cyberstalking or cyberbullying in Salt Lake City, it’s important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Cyberstalking has both immediate and long-lasting consequences that can be devastating. It’s important to act now and obtain help.
Utah cybercrime attorney Susanne Gustin carries 27 years of experience defending clients charged with cyberstalking. She understands the best ways to fight each case aggressively. If you’re interested in scheduling a free, initial consultation, call 801-243-2814 today. Susanne Gustin, Attorney at Law accepts cases in Salt Lake County, Alta, Mount Olympus, Cottonwood West, East Millcreek, Herriman, East Layton, West Bountiful, Fruit Heights, Cottonwood Heights, West Valley City, West Jordan, Sandy, and South Jordan.