Investigating and Prosecuting Stalking Cases Involving Immigrant Victims

This presentation was given at a conference in August 2023 and serves as a guide for investigating and prosecuting stalking cases involving immigrant victims. It defines stalking as a pattern of behavior causing fear or distress and introduces the SLII framework (Surveillance, Life Invasion, Intimidation, Interference) to categorize stalking behaviors, with examples specific to immigrant communities. The presentation highlights the prevalence of stalking, its frequent connection to intimate partner violence, and its role as a lethality risk. Legal remedies for immigrant victims, such as U Visas and VAWA self-petitions, are highlighted. The document provides strategies for law enforcement and prosecutors and stresses the importance of advocacy, individualized safety planning, interagency collaboration, and protecting victims’ privacy, and offers resources for further support.