The bill amends Section 11-52-4.2 of the General Laws in Chapter 11-52, titled "Computer Crime," to explicitly prohibit cyberstalking and cyberharassment. The new legal language inserted into the law defines the offense and clarifies that a person can be found guilty of harassment without the need to prove that the communication was transmitted solely for that purpose. The definition of "harassing" is provided, emphasizing that it involves a knowing and willful course of conduct that causes substantial emotional distress or fear of bodily injury to the victim.

Additionally, the bill modifies the penalties for such offenses. A first offense remains a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500 or imprisonment for up to one year. However, a second or subsequent conviction escalates the offense to a felony, with penalties of up to two years of imprisonment and fines up to $6,000. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
294: 11-52-4.2