In stalking or cyberstalking cases with a minor as victim, what degree felony is charged?

• A. First-degree
• B. Second-degree
• C. Third-degree
• D. Fourth-degree

Answer: (C)

When a minor is the victim in stalking or cyberstalking, the offense is treated as more serious than the same conduct against an adult. The grading of these offenses generally climbs from lower to higher degrees, and the presence of a vulnerable victim typically elevates the charge to a mid-level felony. The standard outcome in this scenario is a third-degree felony, which reflects increased severity due to the minor’s vulnerability and the potential for ongoing harm. This upgrade happens without the extra aggravating factors that would push the charge into the highest degrees, such as use of a weapon, credible threats of serious harm, or prior related offenses. In short, minor victim status elevates the charge to a third-degree felony, with higher degrees reserved for additional aggravating circumstances.