"UES woman stalked for 18 years, through six states"

The above is a headline from yesterday's New York Post. (One of my readers just sent me the link to this story as a post to my Questions and Comments page.)

According to the article, Linda Arnaud had a single date with Moses Shepherd 18 years ago. When she refused a second date, Shepherd showed up at her place of work, at her school, at her apartment, and even on a subway platform. When she moved to New Mexico, the creep followed her. Arnaud later moved to Arizona, then to California, and finally to Connecticut, but Shepherd always found her.

There are only three ways to stop a stalker.

1. Scare him so badly that he stops, but this is difficult to do legally.

2. Kill him, but this is legal only if you shoot him dead when he comes at you with a knife or a gun.

3. Keep him in jail. This is the best way, and that is where Shepherd will spend at least the next few years.

The best way to avoid being stalked is to prepare beforehand. On at least the first few dates with someone who does not already know you, do not reveal your true name, address, phone number, or where you work. To learn more, read How to be Invisible.