A Bigfork, Montana man was sentenced to more than three years in federal prison for cyberstalking, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for Montana. The sentencing represents a significant federal prosecution under laws designed to combat online harassment and digital intimidation.
The case was handled by the U.S. Attorney's Office for Montana, which announced the sentencing as part of ongoing federal enforcement efforts targeting cyberstalking offenses. While specific details about the defendant's identity and the nature of the cyberstalking conduct were not immediately available, the substantial prison sentence indicates the serious nature of the charges.
Cyberstalking prosecutions have become increasingly common as federal authorities prioritize crimes involving digital harassment and online intimidation. The federal cyberstalking statute, codified under 18 U.S.C. § 2261A, criminalizes the use of electronic communications to harass, intimidate, or threaten individuals across state lines. The law carries penalties of up to five years in prison for first-time offenders, with enhanced sentences possible for repeat offenses or cases involving additional aggravating factors.
The Montana case reflects broader trends in federal cybercrime enforcement. The Department of Justice has consistently emphasized the prosecution of online harassment cases as part of its commitment to protecting victims from digital threats and maintaining public safety in online spaces.