Cambridgeshire Police raises awareness of stalking signs after increase in reports
It's all part of a national awareness week this week.
Cambridgeshire Police says in the last three months alone they've seen 1,826 crimes relating to stalking and harassment reported in the county, that's 25% increase on last year.
It comes after the Suzy Lamplugh Trust reported yesterday that it's seen an explosion in the number of reports of stalking incidents during the pandemic.
The charity says its research found that half of victims also experienced an increase in online harassment when the UK went into lockdown last year.
Some victims have reported being followed while on daily exercise, with stalkers wearing face masks to avoid identification.
What are the signs of stalking?
As part of National Stalking Awareness Week this week, Cambridgeshire Police are raising awareness of some of the key signs of stalking and harassment.
These include:
- Constantly sending messages
- Turning up uninvited
- Sending unwanted gifts
- Following someone around
- Anything that makes someone feel pestered or harassed
The force is also highlighting its mnemonic, FOUR, to identify the signs of stalking:
- Fixated
- Obssessive
- Unwanted
- Repetitive
Detective Superintendent John Massey said: "Stalking can be a terrifying experience and leave victims feeling isolated and frightened.
"This week is an opportunity for us to highlight our commitment to supporting victims and taking action against offenders.
"Stalking isn't a one-off crime and often includes a series of incidents which, when taken in isolation may seem trivial, but when put together can be really scary.
"Sadly, throughout the Covid pandemic, stalking has continued and many offenders have moved their harassment online, which triggers different but equally serious fears among victims.
"So our main message this week is to encourage anyone with concerns to get in touch. We're here for victims 24/7 and I'd like to reassure them their voice will be heard and we will support you."
Where can you get help?
There's more information and advice about stalking on the Cambridgeshire Police website.
You can also call the National Stalking Helpline on 0808 802 0300.
To report stalking you can call police on 101, make a report on your police force's website, or in the case of an emergency dial 999.