What to Do When You Are the Victim of a Stalker

I've spent several years out in the retail industry. Going into the densely populated environment of big retail business leaves one surrounded by workers and customers. Doing this daily can be like walking into a buzzing bee hive or a busy ant hill. The radio sings overhead, things are being moved around, and people are everywhere, rushing to and fro or congregating to visit. These places are the hubs of insanity at times!

I enjoyed my job because the hours were flexible and instead of going to the same office everyday, I went into several stores to do my job. It kept me active and got me out and about instead of sitting in a chair all day long.

It had only been a few months when I noticed I was being watched. Having a man hovering around, staring, and circling like a vulture is not flattering to a woman when you're simply trying to do your job. It's disturbing and irritating. Many times it can be frightening.

He began to stick around long enough to see me leave and then proceed to follow me around. I noticed him for several months and kept quiet. I didn't acknowledge him. Instead I ignored him as if I didn't even know he was there. I thought if I ignored him long enough, he would just go away.

I didn't want any attention from other employees or to make a big deal out of it. Finally after allowing this man to ogle and follow me, I had enough and decided it was time to put his inappropriate behavior to a halt. I had a concerned friend who thought it would be a good idea to take a picture of this stalker while he went about his persistent preying upon me. I agreed that it would be beneficial to have a picture of him in case I needed to give it to the police.

When Mr. Stalker realized his picture had been taken he got very angry! I guess he didn't like to be looked at... Like an idiot, he went to the management of the store and told them my friend had taken his picture. When management arrived with a the disgruntled jerk, he went on to say he did not approve of my friend taking his picture. Management said we were not allowed to take pictures in the store and I finally got angry.