THE IMPORTANCE OF STALKING LOGS
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It is VERY important that victims of stalking maintain a log of stalking-related incidents and other stalker information.  Recording this information will help to document the behavior for restraining order applications, divorce and child custody cases, or criminal prosecution.  Because time may pass between incidents, or multiple incidents may "blur" together, a log can also help preserve your memory of individual incidents.  This is especially important if you someday testify in court about the stalking.  To see a sample stalking log, see FORMS.

A stalking log can be used to record and document all stalking-related behavior.  Because stalkers often engage in behavior that seems "harmless" to everyone but the target, law enforcement sometimes cannot take action.  Therefore, a log is especially important to log incidents that are not necessarily criminal in nature.  Note all harassing phone calls, letters, e-mail messages, acts of vandalism, and threats communicated through third parties. When acts are reported to law enforcement, always remember to write down the officer’s name and badge number for your own records.  Even if the officer does not make an arrest at that time, ask them to make a written report and request a copy for your records.  In addition to keeping detailed information about when and where incidents occurred, where they happened, what happened, and witness information, keep a photograph of the stalker, photocopies of restraining orders, police reports, and other relevant documents together in the same place. Keep the log and any other information in a safe place and tell only someone you trust where you keep your log.  If you suspect that the stalker may have access to the log, move it, or keep an additional copy in a secure place, such as a safe or safety deposit box.

Important note: Remember that this information could possibly be introduced as evidence in court, so do not include any information that you do not want the offender to see.

Being the target of stalking behavior can be a difficult and emotionally exhausting experience. If you feel overwhelmed, do not suffer alone.  There are advocates in your community can provide support, information about the options available to you, and assistance with safety planning.