How Do I File a Chicago Police Report for Stalking?

Introduction: A Story That Resonates

Sarah noticed someone lingering outside her workplace for the third time that week. The individual made no direct contact but seemed to always be nearby, observing her comings and goings. Uneasy, she decided to act but wasn’t sure where to start. Filing a police report felt intimidating, but it was the first step in protecting her safety.

If you’ve ever been in a situation like Sarah’s, it’s essential to know how to file a police report for stalking. This guide will walk you through the process and help you take the necessary steps.

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What is Stalking?

Stalking involves a pattern of unwanted attention, harassment, or conduct directed at an individual that causes fear or significant emotional distress. It often includes behaviors such as:

• Repeatedly showing up at a person’s home, workplace, or other places they frequent.
• Sending unwanted messages, gifts, or threats.
• Using technology to track or monitor someone’s movements.

What Stalking is Not

Not all unwanted behaviors meet the legal definition of stalking. One-time incidents, while potentially concerning, may not constitute stalking unless they are part of a broader pattern of harassment or threats.

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Steps to File And Obtain a Police Report for Stalking

Step 1: File the Police Report

The first step is to report the incident to the Chicago Police Department. Learn more about how to file the report online.

Depending on the nature of the stalking, there are specific categories to consider:

• Electronic harassment: Use the category “Other Offense - Harassment by Electronic Means” if the stalking involved emails, text messages, or social media.
• Phone harassment: Use “Other Offense - Harassment by Telephone” for threatening or repeated calls.
• In-person intimidation: Use “Simple Assault” for actions that create immediate fear of harm without physical contact.

After you submit your police report, you may be contacted by an officer for further details or clarification. Be prepared to provide any evidence you have, such as screenshots of messages, photos of the stalker, or detailed logs of their actions.

Step 2: Obtain a Copy of the Police Report

Once you’ve filed your report, it’s important to secure a copy for your records. This document is essential for any legal, personal protective, or insurance-related measures you may pursue.

You can request a copy in one of three ways:

• Through ChicagoPoliceReport.com: We make it easy to order your police report from your phone or laptop. Simply fill out the right information, and we will create and send the order for you. No stamps, no envelopes, no uncertainty, no visits to CPD headquarters. Your report will be mailed directly to you by the Chicago Police Department.
• Mailing Your Request: While it seems convenient, mailing a request involves paperwork, postage, and attention to detail. You need to set it up correctly, write a letter, have postage and envelopes at the ready, and send them out correctly.
• Visiting the Headquarters: You can also choose to visit Records division at Central Police Headquarters, 3510 S. Michigan, 1st Floor, Room 1043, and order your police report in person. However, CPD has limited hours and no free parking. You'll have to take time off of work, pay for parking, find the right entrance, wait in multiple lines, and only then will you get your police report. For those that need the report right away, though, this is the only way to get it quickly.

You can learn more in this guide: How to Look Up a Chicago Police Report.

Protecting Yourself Moving Forward

• Seek a Restraining Order: If the stalking persists, explore obtaining an order of protection through the court system.
• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all interactions and evidence related to the stalking.
• Increase Security: Install cameras, use privacy settings on social media, and inform trusted people in your life about the situation.

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Conclusion

Filing a police report for stalking in Chicago doesn’t have to be daunting. By understanding what constitutes stalking, using the proper reporting channels, and taking proactive steps, you can protect yourself and hold offenders accountable.

If you or someone you know is dealing with stalking, take action today. Your safety is worth it.