The majority of stalkers are men who are of above-average intelligence. They tend to be loners who have a closer relationship with their television sets than with other people. Though stalking has probably gone on in one form or another since men and women have walked the earth, the terminology, classification as a crime and anti-stalking legislation are all relatively new. The nation's first anti-stalking law didn't get on the books until 1990, when California enacted the landmark legislation. The conduct can range from overtly aggressive behavior, such as killing the victim's pet, to telephoning repeatedly all day long.
Legal definitions vary from state to state.
Despite the anti-stalking laws in place, law enforcement officers have a tough time dealing with the crime. Stalkers' actions are often subtle rather than overt, and the victim may be the only witness to the crime. The evidence may consist solely of a phone that rings too often or a seemingly non-threatening gift left on a doorstep. The police may not be inclined to consider roses and a love note threatening. But actions and words that seem harmless at first can take a lethal turn down the road.