Harassment

Four specific ways to commit this crime — pick whichever applies

• Making a telephone call — even if no actual conversation happens
• Communicating in writing (telegraph, mail, or another written form)
• Transmitting an obscene message, or indecent/profane words, over a Citizens Radio Service (CB) channel
• Using a computer network or other electronic communication to either contact the person, or transmit an obscene message/indecent or profane words to them

"Computer network" (broad definition)

• Includes the internet, connected computers, and cell phones/other wireless devices
• This covers far more than just email or websites — texting and app-based messaging both count

Legal definition of "obscene message" (relevant to paths 3 and 4) — ALL THREE parts must be met

• The average person, using current community standards, would find the message's dominant theme appeals to prurient interest in sex
• The message refers to sexual conduct in a patently offensive way
• The message, taken as a whole, lacks serious artistic, literary, political, or scientific value

Elements to prove

1. 1

   The suspect used ONE of the four methods below to communicate

2. 2

   The suspect intended to harass, annoy, or alarm the victim, with NO intent of legitimate communication