Legal Question in Criminal Law in Georgia

Suicide suggestion by message board poster

During a dialog on a Yahoo Finance message board, a harrassing abusive poster documented the sharpening of a knife and in closing said, ''And then, my user id, you'll be ready to slash your wrists.''

Personally, I feel a line has been crossed, but don't know if any law has been broken. I guess I could have a civil case, but it seems my only recourse is to report the violation of Yahoo's terms of Service.

This user uses multiple aliases and is apparently stalking my posts. I think this person is dangerous to others around him and feel that some attempt should be made to document this incident.

I need to find out if this is actionable and what, if any, action should be taken. Thank you.


Asked on 9/27/05, 12:48 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Kendall Carter The Law Offices of Kendall W. Carter, LLC

Re: Suicide suggestion by message board poster

Might I suggest that you report it to the police as an incidence of Stalking. A Stalking is merely contacting another person without that person's consent with the intent to intimidate or harass that person. This statute applies even though the harassment is taking place online. If the cops don't believe you, I suggest you make a copy of the Statute: O.C.G.A. 16-5-90. The Family Law Division of your local Superior Court or District Attorney's Office should be able to help you in obtaining a restraining order against this individual. If the restraining order is violated with harassing conduct, then it would be Felony Aggravated Stalking, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. At a minimum, I would think that the police should take a report of his/her stalking you. Additionally, just keep all the messages you can from the person that you find intimidating and/or harassing. It would help the police and prosecuting attorney down the road if the conduct does not cease. See Official Code of Georgia Annotated 16-5-90 thru 94. Feel free to contact me if you require my services. [email protected]

Read more
Answered on 9/27/05, 1:00 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in Georgia