Cyberstalking bill authored by Sen. Wanggaard signed by governor

A bill providing protection for victims of cyberstalking was signed into law by Governor Scott Walker this week. The bill, authored by Senator Van Wanggaard (R-Racine) and Representative Amy Loudenbeck (R-Clinton), allows courts to issue protective orders for victims of harassment in Wisconsin even if that harassment originates from out-of-state.

“Victims are often targeted through many of today’s modern communications methods,” said Wanggaard. “Harassers will often use text messages, Facebook and Twitter to target their victims thinking they are safe from the law. As of today, that is no longer the case.”

Previously, Wisconsin courts were unable to issue restraining orders protecting Wisconsin residents from harassment and stalking if the harasser resided out-of-state. A victim would have to travel to the state where the harasser lives to obtain relief and be subjected to potential further abuse. Assembly Bill 10 gives victims the ability to obtain restraining orders against abusers, no matter where the abuser lives.

“Wisconsin needs to protect victims of harassment no matter where they live,” Wanggaard said.

“Harassment doesn’t stop at the state line, and now, the law recognizes that.”

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