Can You Call the Police for Verbal Harassment?
The Short Answer:
Yes, you can call the police for verbal harassment. Verbal harassment is a form of harassment that involves using words or tone to intimidate, threaten, or offend someone. The police take verbal harassment seriously, and it is a crime in many jurisdictions. If you are experiencing verbal harassment, you have the right to report it to the police and seek help.
What is Verbal Harassment?
Verbal harassment can take many forms, including:
- Name-calling: Using derogatory or offensive language to address someone
- Abusive language: Using harsh, threatening, or profane language to intimidate or offend someone
- Racist or sexist language: Using language that is based on a person’s race, gender, religion, or other protected characteristic
- Threats: Making threats against someone’s safety or well-being
- Cyberbullying: Using electronic communication, such as text messages, social media, or email, to harass or intimidate someone
Is Verbal Harassment a Crime?
In many jurisdictions, verbal harassment is considered a crime. It can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the offense and the jurisdiction in which it occurs. In some cases, verbal harassment can also be considered a form of hate crime, which carries more severe penalties.
When to Call the Police
You should call the police if you are experiencing verbal harassment that makes you feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or threatened. Even if the harassment is not physical, it can still be a serious issue that requires police intervention.
Signs That Verbal Harassment May Require Police Intervention
Here are some signs that verbal harassment may require police intervention:
- The behavior is persistent: If the harassment is ongoing and relentless, it may be appropriate to call the police for assistance.
- You feel threatened or intimidated: If the harassment is causing you to feel fearful or threatened, it is likely appropriate to call the police.
- The harasser is using violence or property damage: If the harasser is using physical violence or damaging property as part of the harassment, it is a serious offense that requires police intervention.
What to Expect When You Call the Police
When you call the police to report verbal harassment, here is what you can expect:
- An officer will respond: A police officer will be dispatched to your location to take a report and investigate the situation.
- A report will be taken: The officer will take a written report of the harassment, including details of the incident, the harasser’s identity (if known), and any other relevant information.
- An investigation will be conducted: The officer will investigate the incident and gather evidence to support the report.
- Charges may be filed: Depending on the severity of the offense and the jurisdiction in which it occurs, the harasser may be charged with a crime.
Table: Verbal Harassment Statistics
| Jurisdiction | Incidents of Verbal Harassment | Charges Filed |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 1 in 5 women and 1 in 20 men have experienced verbal harassment | 1 in 10 harassers are charged with a crime |
| Canada | 1 in 3 women and 1 in 10 men have experienced verbal harassment | 1 in 5 harassers are charged with a crime |
| United Kingdom | 1 in 2 women and 1 in 5 men have experienced verbal harassment | 1 in 10 harassers are charged with a crime |
Conclusion
Verbal harassment is a serious issue that can have serious consequences for the victim. If you are experiencing verbal harassment, you have the right to report it to the police and seek help. Remember that verbal harassment is a crime, and the police take it seriously. By reporting the harassment and seeking help, you can take back control of your life and ensure that the harasser is held accountable for their actions.
