Stalking may seem like something that only happens in suspenseful movies. But the reality is that stalkers are out there and can pose a real threat to the people they harass.
Fortunately, Texas law takes stalking seriously and can ensure that a serious offender faces time behind bars.
At Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds we like to educate our customers about different Texas laws that keep our communities safe.
Here’s a closer look at what stalking is, the charges that come with it, and how a bondsman can help a possible offender ensure their case gets the proper legal attention.
What is Considered Stalking?
Stalking is a Texas crime that is in close alignment with domestic abuse. Stalking is a form of forced power that makes one non-consensual person, the target of another’s constant verbal, physical, or written attention.
Are You Being Stalked?
Repeated contact that makes the victim feel threatened and fearful for their safety constitutes the act of stalking. If you think that you may have a stalker on your hands, here are some of the most legally recognized forms of stalking in Texas:
- Repeat sending of unwanted gifts
- Threats of death or injury
- Being followed
- Someone constantly waiting for you after you’ve instructed them to not do so
- Threats of damage to your property
- Direct damage to your property
- Online messaging or text message threats
- Repeat prank phone calls
- Purposeful misdirection that attracts your attention (i.e. lying about a family member’s accident)
What is the Punishment for Stalking?
Where a standard charge of harassment stems from a single incident. Repeated events (A.K.A Stalking) are regarded as aggravated harassment within Texas law. In Texas, we take stalking seriously, and even a first-time conviction is a third degree felony.
If a person is convicted under a third degree felony the punishment is up to $10,000 in fines and up to 10 years in prison.
That steep punishment is just where sentences for stalking start. Offenders may also receive a protective order that forbids them from further contact with an individual or entity. A violation of a protective order can lead to even more jail time and fines.
What If You Have a Prior Stalking Conviction?
Receiving a stalking conviction after you already have a stalking charge on your record can drastically increase the consequences of your current conviction. If this occurs, an offender with a past record could face double the prison sentence, even if their former stalking case was from another state.
Can You Get a Bail Bond for a Stalking Arrest?
Unless you’ve committed a severe crime or already have an extensive criminal record, you’re likely going to qualify for bail. Taking advantage of this opportunity could be important for your personal record and help prevent wrongful convictions from hanging onto your name.
Fortunately, with the help of an Arlington bondsman, those arrested for crimes that qualify for bail, can get out of jail fast and start building up a solid case. After all, it’s much easier to meet with your criminal defense attorney and get all of your legal ducks in a row when you aren’t behind bars waiting for your hearing.
Get Out of an Arlington Jail, Fast, With Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds
Getting a bail bond in Arlington is easy, affordable, and guarantees you some freedoms while your trial dates approach.
If you’ve been arrested for any crime that qualifies for bail, reach out to the bondsmen of Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds. Our Arlington location is open 24/7 and has the funds to cover any bail for any charge.
Contact us today to learn more about our process and to start your bail bond application.
