Devon and Cornwall Police Raise Awareness About Stalking

Devon and Cornwall Police are intensifying their efforts to raise awareness about stalking, aiming to debunk myths and misconceptions associated with this serious issue. As it’s Valentine’s Day, the police force is taking the opportunity to educate the public on the realities of stalking, which often diverges from the romanticised portrayals seen in popular culture.

Stalking is defined by the police as a pattern of behaviour that is fixated, obsessed, unwanted, and repeated, leaving victims feeling anxious, distressed, or fearful. Importantly, the campaign clarifies that stalking does not need to involve direct threats of violence to be considered harmful and unacceptable. It can manifest through various means such as physical presence, letters, phone calls, covert observation, or online interactions, all of which can severely impact the victim and those close to them.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Parker of Devon and Cornwall Police highlighted the detrimental effect romantic comedies could have in normalising stalking behaviours. “This type of persistent behaviour is a common theme of romantic comedy films but can sometimes normalise the view that these actions are OK, and that being told ‘No!’ actually means ‘try harder’ in order to win someone’s affection” Parker explained. Through their awareness campaign, the police hope to offer recognisable examples of stalking behaviours, aiding friends and family of potential victims, especially those dealing with an abusive ex-partner, to identify and report such behaviours promptly.

The initiative also aims to inform the public about the resources available for victims of stalking. The campaign directs individuals to the police website for detailed information on stalking and harassment and the procedures to report these incidents. Devon and Cornwall Police are prepared to investigate cases of stalking, provide protection to victims, including Stalking Protection Orders, and refer victims to Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers (ISAC) for additional support through any legal processes.

Resources such as the National Stalking Helpline and the Paladin National Stalking Advocacy Service are also highlighted, offering advice and support to those affected. The message from Devon and Cornwall Police is unequivocal: stalking is a grave concern that requires public attention and action. They encourage anyone who recognises the signs of stalking to report it, underscoring the importance of distinguishing real-life dangers from fictional narratives. The police’s aim is to ensure a safe and romantic Valentine’s Day for all, free from the shadow of stalking.