As digital harassment grows, Democratic lawmakers are pushing the Ceasing Repeated, Extremely Egregious, and Predatory (CREEP) Act to modernize stalking laws. The bill would allow victims to obtain civil anti-stalking orders without requiring an arrest or a prior intimate relationship with the stalker.
Currently, New Yorkers can only get protective orders in Family Court if the stalker is a relative or ex-partner. Others must wait for criminal charges. Lawmakers argue this outdated process leaves victims vulnerable. The CREEP Act would align New York with 44 states offering civil protection for stalking victims.
Advocates say online stalking quickly escalates into real-world danger. The bill aims to ensure victims—whether celebrities, influencers, or everyday people—can access swift legal protection before threats turn violent.
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