Bedfordshire Police is urging residents to spot the signs of stalking and seek help early, after receiving more than 1,500 reports of stalking and harassment in the past year.
The renewed call for vigilance coincides with National Stalking Awareness Week (22–26 April), which shines a spotlight on a crime that accounts for around 40% of male violence against women and girls offences.
In the past 12 months, officers in the county have made 310 arrests and secured 172 charges for stalking-related offences.
Stalking is defined as a pattern of unwanted, fixated and obsessive behaviour that causes fear, alarm or distress. Victims may not always know their stalker, and the impact can be profound.
Prisoner in her own home
One woman from Bedfordshire, targeted by a stranger, said her experience left her feeling like a prisoner in her own home.
“I became scared of my own shadow and every noise within my home,” she said. “I battled with questioning why me and victim blaming myself.”
Detective Sergeant Ben Searle, from Bedfordshire Police’s Stalking Prevention and Intervention Unit, said: “Stalking can be incredibly traumatic and is often linked to high-harm crimes like domestic abuse, sexual offences and even murder.
“We know many people wait too long to report stalking, so it’s vital to raise awareness of the early signs and how to seek help.
“The FOUR mnemonic – Fixated, Obsessive, Unwanted, Repeated – describes stalking behaviour, which can take many forms, including social media contact, messages, gifts or in-person approaches.
“Please remember, if you are a victim of stalking, it is never too early to report it to us.”
The force is encouraging people to look out for changes in the behaviour of loved ones that might signal they are being stalked, including becoming withdrawn, anxious, or unusually secretive.
A heinous crime
Umme Ali, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire, added: “Stalking is not ‘just a nuisance’, it’s a heinous crime that can escalate and leave lasting trauma.
“Our Police and Crime Plan puts victims at the heart of everything we do. We are working with partners to ensure victims are believed, protected and supported, while perpetrators are held accountable.
“Awareness is key, but action is essential.”
Find out more about stalking and how to report it at beds.police.uk.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, always call 999. You can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
