§ 28-46. Definitions.

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Course of conduct means a pattern of conduct composed of a series of two or more separate noncontinuous acts, evidencing a continuity of purpose.

Emotional distress means significant mental suffering or distress that may, but does not necessarily require, medical or other professional treatment or counseling.

Harassment means conduct directed toward a victim that includes, but is not limited to, repeated or continuing unconsented contact, that would cause a reasonable individual to suffer emotional distress and that actually causes the victim to suffer emotional distress. The term "harassment" does not include constitutionally protected activity or conduct that serves a legitimate purpose.

Stalking means a willful course of conduct involving repeated or continuing harassment of another individual that would cause a reasonable person to feel terrorized, frightened, intimidated, threatened, harassed or molested, and that actually causes the victim to feel terrorized, frightened, intimidated, threatened, harassed, or molested.

Unconsented contact means any contact with another individual that is initiated or continued without the individual's consent or in disregard of that individual's expressed desire that the contact be avoided or discontinued. The term "unconsented contact" includes, but is not limited to, any of the following:

(1)

Following or appearing within the sight of that individual.

(2)

Approaching or confronting that individual in a public place or on private property.

(3)

Appearing at the workplace or residence of that individual.

(4)

Entering onto or remaining on property owned, leased or occupied by that individual.

(5)

Contacting that individual by telephone.

(6)

Sending mail or electronic communications to that individual.

(7)

Placing an object on, or delivering an object to, property owned, leased or occupied by that individual.

Victim means an individual who is the target of a willful course of conduct involving repeated or continuing harassment.

(Code 1989, § 658.09; Ord. No. 936, 1-3-2004)

State law reference

Similar provisions, MCL 750.411h.