If you have been charged for stalking in Massachusetts, you could face harsh penalties that can greatly affect your reputation, relationships, career, and life in general. There are times a person could say you were stalking them even if you meant no harm or just browsing through the net. If you find yourself in such a position, you should know how to get yourself out of harsh punishments by requesting parole – Here’s what you need to know.
Stalking in Massachusetts
Stalking in Massachusetts is defined in two parts. The first is directly threatening someone like in domestic violence. The second most common type of stalking is the willful and malicious pattern of behavior that threatens or alarms a person, making them feel emotionally disturbed. For example, closely monitoring someone else’s actions, their conversations, what they do on the internet, as well as their text messages and emails.
Consequences for stalking
If the court finds you guilty of stalking in Massachusetts, you can go to prison for a period of not more than five years, or house imprisonment for up to two and a half years, or a fine of up to $1000, or both imprisonment and the fine. If this is your second conviction, then you must spend at least two years in jail but no more than ten years.
Getting parole for stalking
Parole is not a right in Massachusetts, but if you can prove that you can reintegrate into society without causing a problem, the court could release you early under supervision. After serving some time in prison, you can request a parole hearing, which, if the parole board reviews and deems you safe to go back to society, can get you an early release.
Stalking is a serious offense in Massachusetts. However, if you find yourself in this predicament already, you should act fast and actively to at least minimize some of the harsh penalties.