Title 11
Criminal Offenses

Chapter 59
Stalking

R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-59-1

§ 11-59-1. Definitions.

For the purpose of this chapter:

(1) “Course of conduct” means a pattern of conduct composed of a series of acts over a period of time, evidencing a continuity of purpose. Constitutionally protected activity is not included within the meaning of “course of conduct.”

(2) “Harasses” means a knowing and willful course of conduct directed at a specific person with the intent to seriously alarm, annoy, or bother the person, and which serves no legitimate purpose. The course of conduct must be such as would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress, or be in fear of bodily injury.

History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 201, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 382, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 358, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 183, § 1.