And, down the rabbit hole of federal interstate stalking law I go… 🤔

FEDERAL STALKING LAW - TITLE 18 U.S. CODE § 2261A 18 U.S. Code § 2261A is the federal law that addresses two main types of interstate stalking: traveling across state lines with the intent to stalk and using interstate channels to do so. Federal Stalking Law The federal stalking law criminalizes crossing state lines to stalk, using interstate commerce or electronic communication. It is a felony for someone to cross state borders or navigate within U.S. maritime jurisdiction with the goal of harming, harassing, or intimidating another person, and then engage in actions that create fear of death, serious injury, or significant emotional distress. The law also prohibits using the mail, the internet, or other interstate means to stalk someone in another state, causing similar fear or distress. Stalking is illegal in all states. However, when it crosses state boundaries, takes place in U.S. territories or maritime areas, or involves U.S. mail or electronic communications across state lines, it can be prosecuted as a federal crime, often carrying more severe penalties. Securing pretrial release in a federal stalking case can be difficult, especially when the government contends that the defendant poses a danger to the community or is a flight risk. KEY TAKEAWAYS As part of the 1996 Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), Congress added an anti-stalking law to bolster victim protections and address legal gaps. Known as the Interstate Stalking Punishment and Prevention Act, it makes crossing state lines with the intent to harm or harass a person a federal offense. 18 U.S. Code 2261A has harsher penalties and broadens the definition of "stalking" to cover electronic communications, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of this law. As internet and social media usage grow, electronic communication has become routine. Traditionally, stalking involves physical presence by the alleged perpetrator near the victim.