FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Huron County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office
Phone: 989-269-9255
The Huron County Prosecutor’s Office recognizes January as National Stalking Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the serious and often misunderstood crime of stalking, supporting victims, and encouraging community members to take action when they see warning signs.
Stalking is a Serious Crime
Stalking is not merely unwanted attention or annoyance—it is a crime that can cause significant emotional distress, fear, and long-term harm to victims. In many cases, stalking behavior escalates over time and may be associated with other crimes, including domestic violence and assault. The Huron County Prosecutor’s Office regularly prosecutes stalking cases and sees firsthand the impact this behavior has on victims and their families.
“Stalking is about control, intimidation, and fear,” said Huron County Prosecuting Attorney Timothy J. Rutkowski. “Victims often change how they live their daily lives—where they go, how they communicate, and who they trust—just to feel safe. Our office takes stalking allegations seriously, and we will continue to hold offenders accountable while supporting victims throughout the criminal justice process.”
Michigan law recognizes stalking as a criminal offense, and depending on the circumstances, charges may range from misdemeanor stalking to felony aggravated stalking. These cases often involve repeated unwanted contact, monitoring, threats, or harassment that causes a victim to feel terrorized, frightened, intimidated, or harassed. While stalking can occur between strangers, it frequently involves individuals who know each other, such as former partners, acquaintances, coworkers, or neighbors.
January 18 is recognized nationally as the Day of Action for Stalking Awareness, encouraging communities to learn the signs of stalking and take proactive steps to prevent it. The Prosecutor’s Office urges residents to use this day—and the entire month of January—to educate themselves and others about stalking behaviors and available resources.
Common stalking behaviors may include repeated unwanted phone calls or messages, following or surveilling someone, showing up uninvited at a person’s home or workplace, sending unwanted gifts, monitoring online activity, or making threats—direct or indirect. Technology has increasingly played a role in stalking, with offenders using social media, GPS tracking, or electronic communication to monitor or harass victims.
National Stalking Awareness Month: Supporting Victims and Promoting Community Safety
The Huron County Prosecutor’s Office encourages anyone who believes they are being stalked to document incidents, preserve messages or evidence, and contact law enforcement. Early reporting can be critical in preventing escalation and ensuring safety. Victims may also benefit from seeking personal protection orders (PPOs) and connecting with local advocacy organizations for support and safety planning.
“Stalking thrives in silence,” Prosecutor Rutkowski added. “Awareness empowers victims and communities alike. If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking behavior, report it. No one should feel unsafe or afraid in their own community.”
The Huron County Prosecutor’s Office remains committed to protecting victims, enforcing the law, and working with law enforcement and community partners to address stalking and related crimes. By recognizing National Stalking Awareness Month, the office reaffirms its dedication to public safety and victim advocacy throughout Huron County.
For more information about stalking laws or victim resources, residents are encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the Huron County Prosecutor’s Office.
