Is Harassment a Crime in Michigan?

Like in many states, harassment is a serious issue in Michigan. Harassment can be extremely damaging and cause harm, distress, and fear in the victim. Under Michigan law, harassment is a crime and can be penalized with fines, imprisonment, probation, and other criminal consequences. If you are facing charges related to harassment or stalking, it is important that you obtain skilled representation during your case. Reach out to an Upper Peninsula criminal defense lawyer today for more information and legal advice.

How is Harassment Defined?

Harassment can be defined differently depending on where you are. In Michigan, harassment is generally defined as unwanted behavior, communication, or conduct done with the intent to annoy, threaten, intimidate, or alarm the other person. Harassment may come in several different forms and can happen anywhere. Whether at school, working, walking down the street, or surfing the internet, harassment can happen to anyone at any time.

Michigan state law generally recognizes four types of harassment including the following.

1. Stalking: Stalking is one of the most severe forms of harassment. It involves a pattern of repeated behavior that causes the victim to fear for their safety or the safety of their loved ones. Stalking may manifest as following the victim, repeatedly calling or texting them, threatening them, or any other unwanted behavior designed to cause the victim emotional distress.
2. Verbal harassment: Verbal harassment is one of the most common forms. It occurs when an individual uses spoken or written communication to threaten, intimidate, or demean another person.
3. Sexual harassment: Sexual harassment is an unfortunate issue across the country in public, in the workplace, in schools, and more. Sexual harassment includes any unwanted sexual advances, the use of derogatory comments, quid pro quo, or lewd conduct.
4. Cyberbullying: Harassment is not limited to in-person actions. Cyberbullying involves the use of technology to harass or intimidate another person. This can include sending threatening messages, spreading rumors and false information, bullying, cyberstalking, etc.

Is Harassment a Crime in MI?

Yes, Chapter 750 of the Michigan Penal Code outlines the various definitions associated with stalking and harassment, making the action a crime. When an individual is harassed they may fear for their safety and be made to believe that the offender intends to physically harm them or their family. In doing so, this also causes emotional harm.

One of the most common ways that harassment is charged and penalized is through a stalking offense. The penalties associated with stalking may vary depending on whether the charges are misdemeanors or felonies.

Misdemeanor stalking is punishable by the following.

• Up to 1 year in jail
• Up to $1,000 in fines

Felony stalking is punishable by the following.

• Up to 5 years in prison
• Up to $10,000 in fines

The penalties for stalking and harassment in general can be severe so it is crucial that you obtain skilled representation and implement an effective defensive strategy during your case. Contact Berger Law to set up a consultation today.