Cyberstalking is continually pursuing someone online or over the phone with the intent to harass or threaten them or their property instead of having a legitimate conversation or constructive dialogue. Repeated communications at inconvenient hours that invade another person’s sense of privacy or repeatedly challenging them, taunting them, or using offensive language to provoke a violent or fearful response from them could rightfully end in accusations of cyberstalking.
Cyberstalking and cyberbullying seem to be appearing more frequently on college campuses because as technology, the internet, and social media become more prevalent in today’s culture, they are becoming more widespread on campuses, as well, as part of what young adults need to be familiar with in order to contribute to society and the workforce. The anonymity that people often feel when communicating via phone or social media can dupe them into believing that they can post or say whatever they want with no consequences, which is not the case.
If you are a student who has been charged with cyberbullying or cyberstalking, reach out to Justie and Jenn at Colorado Lawyer Team as soon as possible. An experienced Greenwood Village student cyberbullying defense lawyer could help you avoid any harsh consequences. Reach out to a knowledgeable student defense attorney to discuss your case.
Consequences of Cyberstalking
Student charged or found guilty of cyberbullying on campus could lose their ability to register for classes the following semester, they could be evicted from student housing, or they could face restricted access to the university’s campus and events. Cyberbullying charges are often handled by universities as a student conduct offense, and the university may administer any consequences that they see fit including suspension, expulsion, issuing a protective order against the student, or worse yet, contacting the authorities to have criminal charges brought forth.
Criminal Penalties
Harassment is a Class 3 misdemeanor (M3) in Colorado, which is often considered a relatively minor offense. However, an M3 still carries with it the possibility of jail, probation, court costs, or fines. If an individual accused of harassment of cyberstalking already has a criminal history, they could be sentenced to jail for 12 to 18 months, particularly if the alleged crime can be classified as intimate partner or domestic violence.
Cyberstalking can also be charged as an M1 if the alleged offense is determined to be a hate crime, which would entail using the internet or phone to harass someone because of their race, religion, nationality, physical disability, or sexual orientation.
Any conviction on your record could result in serious life-changing consequences including trouble with getting a job down the road or questions about a background check.
