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Harassment: Includes conduct which causes alarm or distress and must occur on at least two occasions. This can include stalking, sending abusive messages, or any other repeated behavior that causes distress.
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Investigation: The police will investigate the complaint, which may involve interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and speaking to the person accused.
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Arrest: If there is sufficient evidence, the police may arrest the individual. This can occur at the scene of the incident, at the individual's home, or after they have been summoned to a police station.
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Custody: After arrest, the individual may be taken into custody and questioned. They have the right to legal representation during questioning.
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Charging Decision: Based on the evidence, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) will decide whether to charge the individual with an offense. This decision is based on whether there is a realistic prospect of conviction and whether it is in the public interest to proceed.
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Criminal Record: A conviction for harassment will result in a criminal record.
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Penalties: Penalties can include fines, community service, restraining orders, or imprisonment. For example, under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997, the maximum sentence can be up to six months' imprisonment for summary offenses and up to five years for more serious cases.
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Restraining Orders: Courts can issue restraining orders to protect the victim, even if the individual is not convicted. These orders can prohibit the individual from contacting or approaching the victim.
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Civil Action: Victims may also pursue civil actions for damages against the harasser.
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Legal Representation: The accused has the right to legal advice and representation throughout the process.
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Fair Trial: They are entitled to a fair trial, where they can present their defense and challenge the evidence against them.
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Support Services: Victims of harassment can access support services, including counseling and advice from organizations such as Victim Support and other local services.
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Immediate Danger: If someone is in immediate danger, they should call 999.
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Non-Emergency: For non-emergency situations, individuals can contact the police via the non-emergency number 101 or report the incident online through their local police force's website.
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