California Penal Code Section 646.9

California Penal Code Section 646.9 criminalizes the act of stalking, specifically when an individual willfully and maliciously follows, harasses, or threatens someone, causing fear for their safety or the safety of their family. This includes behaviors like repeated unwanted communication, surveillance, or other actions that would cause a reasonable person to feel frightened or threatened. The law aims to protect victims from ongoing harassment and provides for penalties including fines, restraining orders, or imprisonment, depending on the severity and circumstances of the behavior.