Domestic Violence Harassment

Harassment encompasses a range of behaviors that can lead to emotional distress or create a sense of danger. These behaviors go beyond physical interactions or explicit threats; they may include actions as seemingly harmless as text messages or phone calls. Unfortunately, the complexity of harassment cases often surpasses what is captured in police reports. Defendants frequently face challenging legal battles, as prosecutors may have already formed a strong stance regarding guilt or innocence, prepared to counter their defense vigorously.

Harassment Definition

The Pennsylvania Code, Section 2709

Pennsylvania’s legal code defines harassment through Section 2709, addressing two distinct crimes:

1. Harassment
2. Cyber Harassment of a Child

Harassment

Under Pennsylvania law, harassment occurs when an individual deliberately engages in activities intended to annoy, harass, or alarm another person. Specific acts categorized as harassment include:

• Repeated Communication: Persistent attempts to contact or communicate with someone despite their clear disinterest.
• Physical Actions: Acts involving intentional contact aimed to harm or alarm.
• Lewd Behavior: Sending inappropriate jokes, comments, or photos via electronic means.

Cyber Harassment of a Child

This offense specifically targets minors, involving the use of electronic communication or social media to deliberately alarm, disturb, or harass a child New Castle criminal lawyer. Cyber harassment includes actions such as:

• Threatening Harm
• Making Disparaging Remarks about the child’s physical or mental health, sexual orientation, appearance, or activities.
• Sending Threatening or Aggressive Messages Online.

Harassment Penalties in Pennsylvania

Harassment charges in Pennsylvania can range from a summary offense to a third-degree misdemeanor, with varying levels of severity. Here’s a breakdown of potential penalties:

• Summary Offense:
  • Sentence of up to 90 days in jail.
  • Fines that could reach up to $300.
• Third-Degree Misdemeanor:
  • Potential sentence of up to one year in jail.
  • Fines as high as $2,000.

Penalties may increase if the harassment violates a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order or if the defendant continues to harass the victim or their family. Actions linked to PFA violations are typically escalated to a higher grade offense. That’s why consulting an experienced New Castle DUI attorney is a necessary step in safeguarding your rights.

Examples of Harassment

Here are common examples of behaviors that may result in harassment charges:

• Intentionally making physical contact meant to harm someone.
• Repeatedly attempting to call, text, or email an individual who has requested no contact.
• Disseminating or messaging lewd or inappropriate comments or photos online.
• Threatening harm to a minor via digital platforms.
• Sending demeaning statements regarding a person’s personal characteristics or activities.
• Following someone persistently in a public place.
• Disrupting someone by contacting them at inconvenient or inappropriate times.
• Persistently issuing verbal or text-based threats.

At the core of any harassment case lies the ability to prove intent. Did the individual act with a deliberate objective to harm, annoy, or alarm?

So, if you have been charged with any of the above actions, stop waiting and consult a New Castle criminal lawyer right away.

Defending Against Harassment Charges

Defending against harassment charges can be challenging, as they share similarities with stalking charges but typically involve lighter penalties. That said, harassment cases are often easier for prosecutors to prove. To build their case, prosecutors frequently rely on:

• Text Messages and Phone Call Records
• Statements Made by Victims

The Role of Intent

A harassment charge hinges on establishing intent—that the defendant deliberately acted to alarm or distress the victim. This makes the prosecution’s job comparatively straightforward. Victim testimony and digital communication records play a significant role in this process.

Creating a Strong Defense

For defendants, it’s critical to ensure that their side of the story is properly heard. This includes:

• Taking the Stand: Sharing the events from the perspective of the defendant gives the jury a fuller picture of the situation.
• Countering the Prosecution: A skilled New Castle DUI attorney can effectively challenge the prosecution’s narrative, undermining their case when possible.

Facing harassment charges can be overwhelming, especially when prematurely judged based on accusations. However, a knowledgeable and experienced New Castle criminal lawyer can make a tremendous difference.

Logue Law Group

If you or someone you know is facing harassment charges, you need a New Castle DUI attorney who understands the intricacies of the legal system. Sean Logue and the team at Logue Law Group bring the experience, dedication, and empathy necessary to effectively defend your case. They have a proven track record of success in New Castle and its surrounding areas.

Why Choose Logue Law?

• Unmatched Expertise in harassment cases and similar offenses.
• Personalized care and representation focused on your best interests.
• Initial consultations are always free of charge.

Contact Logue Law today at 844.PITT.DUIor visit us online to schedule your consultation. We New Castle criminal lawyers serve areas like West Virginia and Ohio. Don’t face harassment charges alone—get the guidance you deserve.