26/09/2022

New Campaign Highlights Stalking Crime Legislation

Stalking is a crime in Northern Ireland and it will not be tolerated, Justice Minister Naomi Long has said as she launched a campaign to raise awareness of the new stalking offence.

Minister Long has announced the introduction of the Protection from Stalking Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. The new specific offence of stalking is focused on recognising stalking behaviour that can be fixated, obsessive, unwanted and repeated. It carries greater penalties and protections than those available under harassment legislation.

Naomi Long said: "Since becoming Justice Minister, I have met many victims of this horrendous crime and listened to the torture, fear, and distress they have had to deal with on a daily basis. I fully appreciate the devastating effect that stalking can have on its victims, and how manipulative and persistent a stalker can be. That is why I made it a priority to bring legislation to the Assembly which would create a specific stalking offence.

"The campaign being launched today seeks to raise awareness of the new offence; as well as how to recognise and report stalking behaviour. I want to encourage anyone who experiences stalking to report it, and for those who may engage in stalking behaviour or underestimate the devastation that it causes, let me be clear: stalking is a crime."

The Protection from Stalking Act also provides that all victims of stalking will have automatic eligibility for special measures assistance, such as the use of live links or screens at court, when giving evidence in proceedings. The Act also includes the offence of threatening or abusive behaviour which can be triggered by a single incident.

It is anticipated that Stalking Protection Orders, which were also legislated for within the Act, will be introduced in 2023.

The Justice Minister continued: "While the legislation is hugely significant, legislation on its own is not enough. Training and awareness raising is critical and I wish to pay tribute to the extensive work and training undertaken by partners in the Police Service and the Public Prosecution Service, as well as across the wider criminal justice system."

Police Service of Northern Ireland's Chief Constable, Simon Byrne said: "Stalking is a sinister crime that takes over and destroys lives. It is vital that those affected feel confident in reporting, knowing that action will be taken and that the law is on their side.

"I think many people when they hear the word 'stalking' will think of someone lurking in the shadows. Stalking can actually take many forms and can be online as well as in person. It is a pattern of behaviours that is fixated, obsessive, unwanted and repeated.

"We are now empowered in Northern Ireland to confront the issue, challenge perceptions and raise awareness. Stalking is a crime, which will not be tolerated or accepted within our communities and we will use every tool at our disposal to bring offenders to justice and keep victims safe from harm."

Anyone experiencing stalking should contact the PSNI on 101. In an emergency always dial 999.

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

29 October 2024
New Youth Justice Agency Headquarters Officially Open
The new Youth Justice Agency (YJA) headquarters was officially opened today. During a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Justice Minister Naomi Long opened the new facilities, which are based at Charles House, Donegall Street, Belfast.
17 July 2024
Man Arrested During South Belfast Disorder
During another night of disorder in the Broadway area of South Belfast, a 38-year-old man has been arrested as paint, bottles and a number of petrol bombs were thrown at police. Police estimate that around 40 people, many of which were teenagers were involved with the disorder.
09 July 2024
BCC Commits To Enabling North Street Development
Belfast City Council (BCC) is committed to enabling development along North Street in the city centre, the site of controversial and long delayed Tribeca development. It was one of a number of updates from BCC as it highlighted its continuing work to ensure a 'clean, green, safe, vibrant, connected and welcoming' city centre.
24 July 2024
Justice Minister Announces Increase In NI Prison Staff
Justice Minister, Naomi Long, has announced an increase in the number of Prison staff in response to Northern Ireland's rising prisoner population. Since July 2021 the prison population has increased by over 500 prisoners and now stands at 1,920.
02 July 2024
UUP Calls On Justice Minister To 'Excuse Herself' From PB Review
The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) has called on the Justice Minister to excuse herself from setting the terms of reference for the Policing Board Review into the February 2021 Ormeau Road incident.