Kalish Introduces Legislation Cracking Down on Cyberstalkers Targeting Minors

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In response to rapidly changing social media and technology, state Rep. Yehiel “Mark” Kalish, D-Chicago, has introduced legislation that toughens penalties on cyber stalkers that target minors.

“Social media and technology are becoming more and more a part of everyday life for children,” Kalish said. “We need to make sure that we are taking proactive steps to protect minors from dangerous individuals.” 

Cyberstalking, refers to the use of the internet, email, or other telecommunication/electronic technologies to harass or stalk another and is often used in conjunction with traditional forms of stalking. According to the National Center for Victims of Crime, over the last 15 years, the incidence of stalking through the use of technology has sharply increased.

Kalish’s legislation, House Bill 3022, increases the criminal penalty for the cyberstalking of a minor, helping keep perpetrators of these heinous crimes behind bars for a longer period of time. Kalish’s proposal has been assigned to the House Judiciary Criminal Committee and is currently awaiting a vote.

“As cyberstalking becomes a more prevalent crime we need to ensure that individuals targeting children face justice for their crimes,” Kalish said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to create more common-sense protections for children in our community.”

Rep. Kalish was recently sworn in as state Representative of the 16th District, which includes portions of Skokie, Lincolnwood, Morton Grove and Chicago. For more information, please contact Kalish’s district office at 847-673-1131.

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