What is considered aggravated stalking?

Aggravated stalking is characterized by the willful disregard for a restraining order or protective order that prohibits contact with an individual. This action demonstrates a blatant violation of legal boundaries that are intended to safeguard victims from harassment or potential harm. When an individual knowingly ignores such orders, it escalates the severity of the offense, signifying not just stalking behavior but also a clear defiance of the law.

In the context of other choices, contacting someone under lawful process involves communication that is permitted by the court, indicating compliance with legal directives. Following someone without consent could be considered stalking, but without the violation of a restraining order, it might not rise to the level of aggravated stalking. Lastly, stalking without malicious intent does not accurately reflect the nature of aggravated stalking, which inherently includes intent to harm or cause distress. Thus, willfully ignoring a restraining order brings forth a more serious legal implication and is correctly identified as aggravated stalking.