For an elected official, it turns a political disagreement into a physical risk. It does not stop with the official. Landlords, hosts, neighbors, relatives and supporters can be pulled in.
What it looks like
- A photo of a car in front of a home.
- An address posted on a website or social page.
- A post saying someone has been “outside” a house watching occupants come and go.
- Notes left at the homes of people who host events.
Why it keeps working
Posts can be copied. Removal requests are often ignored. Cease-and-desist letters carry no force when no one enforces them, and the target is told to wait.
In my own case
An image of my car in front of my home was posted by someone active in local politics and remained online after two cease-and-desist letters and a police report. I recorded it digitally with time and date, forwarded it, and left the details of who did it with the authorities.
This site describes conduct, not individuals. I share names and files with the District Attorney, police and my attorney, and I leave the question of who is responsible to them.