Nearly 1000 notices warning potential stalkers have been issued alongside 140 criminal charges since new stalking and harassment laws took effect in May, according to Ministry of Justice data. Yet, despite these police interventions, zero convictions have been secured as cases navigate the court system.
Stalking Law Enforcement and Court Progress
The legislation criminalizes making unwanted, persistent, and repetitive intrusions into another person’s life that cause serious psychological, social, and economic harm, carrying a maximum penalty of five years in prison. According to Ministry of Justice figures provided by Sector Insights general manager Rebecca Parish, 19 of the 140 charges have been finalized in court, while the remaining 121 are still progressing.
“All of the finalised charges were withdrawn; none have been convicted and sentenced,” Parish said, adding that cases take time to move through the court system. “The absence of convictions at this stage is not necessarily unexpected.”
Police Response and Government Stance
Police maintain that front-line intervention remains active. Acting Director of Prevention Inspector Natasha Allan stated that people engaging in stalking and harassment should expect police action and encouraged victims to report incidents. Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith defended the legislation, stating the government is fixing a gap in the law where insidious behavior previously went unpunished.
Victim Advocate and Activist Concerns
Victim advocate Claire Buckley expressed concern over the lack of criminal convictions, noting that police are arresting suspects, but the charges ultimately fall down at the prosecution level. Aotearoa Free From Stalking project lead Leonie Morris described the lack of convictions as bizarre and disappointing, calling for greater regulation of online platforms, independent oversight, and anti-stalking public attitude campaigns to support the law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum penalty under the stalking law?
The offense carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
How many notices have been issued to potential stalkers?
Nearly 1000 warning notices have been issued since the legislation took effect.
Have any convictions been secured yet?
No convictions have been recorded, as all 19 finalized charges out of 140 total charges were withdrawn while the remaining cases progress through the courts.
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