CRIMINAL HARASSMENT & STALKING IN MARYLAND

Frank Benvenuto, P.A.
Oct 20
2 min read

In Maryland, harassment and stalking charges are taken seriously and can carry lasting legal and personal consequences. While these offenses may seem similar, they are treated differently under state law. Understanding how each is defined and what to expect if charged is critical to protecting your rights.

a man in a black hoodie cautiously peers around the corner of a brick building on a quiet suburban street at sunset, symbolizing the concept of stalking or suspicious behavior

Harassment under Maryland Law

Harassment occurs when a person repeatedly contacts, follows, or pursues another individual with the intent to alarm, annoy, or harass them, after being told to stop.

Examples may include:

Persistent unwanted phone calls, texts, or messages
Showing up at someone’s home, workplace, or public locations uninvited
Using social media or other electronic means to cause distress

To be charged, prosecutors must show that the behavior had no legitimate purpose and that the accused intended to disturb or harass the victim. Even if there’s no threat of violence, repeated unwanted contact can result in a misdemeanor charge.

Penalties for Harassment:

A conviction can lead to up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine up to $500 for a first offense. Repeated offenses can result in harsher penalties, including extended jail time and higher fines.

Stalking in Maryland

Stalking is more severe than harassment. Maryland law defines stalking as approaching or pursuing another person with the intent to place them in reasonable fear of bodily harm, sexual assault, or death.

Examples include:

Following someone in person or by vehicle
Repeatedly showing up at a victim’s home or workplace
Using GPS devices or technology to monitor another person
Sending threatening messages or making credible threats

Penalties for Stalking:

Stalking is a misdemeanor, but it can lead to up to five years in jail and a fine up to $5,000. If a firearm or protective order violation is involved, charges can escalate quickly.

What to Expect If You Are Charged

If charged with harassment or stalking, do not contact the alleged victim—even to “clear things up.” Violating any no-contact order can make your situation far worse. Instead, contact a defense attorney immediately.

An experienced criminal defense lawyer can:

Review the details of the accusations
Identify inconsistencies or lack of intent
Challenge any illegally obtained evidence
Negotiate reduced charges or dismissal when possible

Defending Against Harassment or Stalking Allegations

Each case depends on its facts, but common defenses include:

Lack of intent — contact was accidental or not meant to harass
False accusations — the alleged victim misinterpreted contact or fabricated claims
Freedom of speech or legitimate purpose — for example, repeated contact for business or legal reasons

DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney, Frank Benvenuto

Frank Benvenuto, P.A. has over 32 years of criminal defense experience in Worcester County and throughout the Eastern Shore. He understands how to protect your rights and help you navigate the system.