Texarkana, AR (KMSS) — The Arkansas house is looking over a new bill that would change the stalking laws for the state.
Currently, there is no law against the most common examples of stalking, like phone calls, showing up in public places and sending items through the mail.
Currently, the states definition of stalking does not take into consideration the mindset of the victims, already intimidated by their attackers; the proposed changes would change the definition to include that others in the same mindset and situation would fear for their safety or the safety of others.
The changes would also make stalking punishments more severe, changing many instances into felony offenses. It would also give victims more power and rights, making stalking a civil offense as well as a criminal offense.