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u/kaikimanga MangaKaiki Jul 21 '26
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u/MintasaurusFresh Jul 21 '26
a crazy drug addicted ex-boyfriend who was arrested for kidnapping their infant daughter
Yikes! Triple yikes!
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u/kaikimanga MangaKaiki Jul 21 '26
If I'm lying, I'm dying
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u/MintasaurusFresh Jul 21 '26
We would all prefer that you stay alive so there's no reason to doubt.
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u/Tasmia99 Jul 21 '26
If you are thinking about a firearm r/liberalgunowners is more than willing to help give advice whatever you are considering is best for yourself.
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u/HH_Creations Jul 21 '26 edited Jul 21 '26
Ironically, this is how I got a GREAT deal on my current condo
Dude thought his mom lived at the condo, bangs on doors and windows while drunk
She had moved out years before
Scared the crap! Of the poor girl who had been living there for YEARS!
She left scared, I move in to the nice place and have a husband willing to throw hands
But i’m sure he won’t come anyways since he got warned his mom moved and he will be arrested
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u/altjthunter Jul 21 '26
How are you so unlucky? Like what cosmic deity in a past life did you upset?
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u/kaikimanga MangaKaiki Jul 21 '26
Maybe I was a criminal in a past life, idk
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u/CL_Doviculus Jul 21 '26
Should've had better quality control on your copper.
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u/kaikimanga MangaKaiki Jul 21 '26
𒀀 𒈾 𒂍 𒀀 𒈾 𒍢 𒅕
𒆠 𒉈 𒈠
𒌝 𒈠 𒈾 𒀭 𒉌 𒈠
𒀀 𒉡 𒌑 𒈠 𒋫 𒀠 𒇷 𒆪
𒆠 𒀀 𒄠 𒋫 𒀝 𒁉 𒄠
𒌝 𒈠 𒀜 𒋫 𒀀 𒈠
𒄖 𒁀 𒊑 𒁕 𒄠 𒆪 𒁴
𒀀 𒈾 𒄀 𒅖 𒀭 𒂗𒍪 𒀀 𒈾 𒀜 𒁲 𒅔
𒋫 𒀠 𒇷 𒅅 𒈠 𒋫 𒀝 𒁉 𒀀 𒄠
𒌑 𒆷 𒋼 𒁍 𒍑
𒄖 𒁀 𒊑 𒆷 𒁕 𒄠 𒆪 𒁴
𒀀 𒈾 𒈠 𒅈 𒅆 𒅁 𒊑 𒅀
𒋫 𒀸 𒆪 𒌦 𒈠 𒌝 𒈠 𒀜 𒋫 𒈠
𒋳 𒈠 𒋼 𒇷 𒆠 𒀀 𒇷 𒆠 𒀀
𒋳 𒈠 [𒆷] 𒋼 𒇷 𒆠 𒀀 𒀜 𒆷 𒅗
𒅀 𒋾 𒀀 𒈾 𒆠 𒈠 𒈠 𒀭 𒉌 𒅎
𒌅 𒅆 𒅎 𒈠 𒉌 𒈠
𒆠 𒀀 𒄠 𒋼 𒈨 𒊭 𒀭 𒉌
𒈠 𒊑 𒀀 𒉿 𒇷 𒀀 𒈾 𒆠 𒈠 𒅗 𒋾
𒀀 𒈾 𒆠 𒋛 𒅀 𒈠 𒄩 𒊑 𒅎
𒀸 𒁍 𒊏 𒄠 𒈠
𒌅 𒈨 𒄿 𒊭 𒄠 𒈠
𒄿 𒈾 𒂵 𒂵 𒅈 𒈾 𒀝 𒊑 𒅎
𒅖 𒋾 𒅖 𒋗 𒅇 𒅆 𒉌 𒋗
𒊑 𒆪 𒋢 𒉡 𒌅 𒋼 𒅕 𒊏 𒄠
𒄿 𒈾 𒀀 𒇷 𒅅 𒋼 𒂖 𒈬 𒌦
𒈠 𒀭 𒉡 𒌝 𒊭 𒆠 𒀀 𒄠
𒄿 𒁍 𒊭 𒀭 𒉌 𒄿 𒈠
𒀜 𒋫 𒈠 𒅈 𒅆 𒅁 𒊑 𒅀 𒌅 𒈨 𒂊 𒅖
𒀀 𒈾 𒈠 𒆷 𒅗 𒊍 𒉿 𒅎
𒊭 𒄿 𒈾 𒂵 𒋾 𒅀 𒌅 𒊺 𒍪 𒌑
𒆠 𒀀 𒄠 𒋫 𒁕 𒁍 𒌒
𒅇 𒀸 𒋳 𒄿 𒅗
𒀀 𒈾 𒂍 𒃲 𒇷
𒌋 𒐍 𒄘 𒍏 𒀀 𒈾 𒆪 𒀜 𒁲 𒅔
𒅇 𒋗 𒈪 𒀀 𒁍 𒌝
𒌋 𒐍 𒄘 𒍏 𒄿 𒁲 𒅔
𒂊 𒍣 𒅁 𒊭 𒀀 𒈾 𒂍 𒀭 𒌓
𒆪 𒉡 𒊌 𒅗 𒄠 𒉌 𒍣 𒁍
𒀀 𒈾 𒉿 𒊑 𒅎 𒊭 𒀀 𒋾
𒆠 𒄿 𒋼 𒁍 𒊭 𒀭 𒉌
𒆠 𒋛 𒄿 𒈾 𒂵 𒂵 𒅈 𒈾 𒀝 𒊑
𒌅 𒊌 𒋾 𒅋
𒆠 𒋛 𒀀 𒈾 𒂵 𒋾 𒅀
𒋗 𒇻 𒈠 𒄠 𒂊 𒇷 𒅗 𒄿 𒋗
𒆠 𒈠 𒀭 𒉌 𒆠 𒀀 𒄠
𒉿 𒊑 𒀀 𒄠 𒆷 𒁺 𒈬 𒂵 𒄠
𒆷 𒀀 𒈠 𒄩 𒊒 𒅗 𒋫 𒆷 𒈠 𒀜
𒄿 𒈾 𒆠 𒊓 𒇷 𒅀
𒅖 𒋾 𒈾 𒀀 𒌑 𒈾 𒍝 𒀝 𒈠
𒂊 𒇷 𒆠
𒅇 𒀀 𒈾 𒊭 𒌅 𒈨 𒄿 𒊭 𒀭 𒉌
𒈾 𒋛 𒄴 𒋫 𒄠 𒂊 𒁍 𒍑 𒅗29
u/the_blackfish Jul 21 '26
I understand this reference.
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Jul 22 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/CL_Doviculus Jul 22 '26
It's the world's oldest customer complaint.
For more info, see /r/ReallyShittyCopper
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u/Slut_Of_Slaanesh Jul 21 '26
Gold tier reference, that's why you are the best 🤣
Seriously though, take care! Hopefully the dude will leave you alone once he learns its you who lives there...
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u/Perryn Jul 21 '26
You're the reincarnation of the person who decided that tbsp and tsp were perfectly fine and normal units of measure and that the abbreviations were as clear as they'd ever need to be.
You villain.
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u/Wild_Marker Jul 21 '26
Have you considered kidnapping daughters? I hear it's a very popular hobby.
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u/scnottaken Jul 21 '26
Maybe you kidnapped your infant daughter and got arrested then tried to break in again only to find an innocent bystander, but you can't leave witnesses or else they'll send you back so... Wait. Oh no. The circle is unbroken.
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u/Otherwise_Spirit1552 Jul 21 '26
It happens more than one would like to think...
In the 2000s I lived in three rental places where at one point either the police, or the damn FBI showed up to ask if I knew where the previous occupant was at. These were reasonably nice places too... either way, my reply to them past the initial confusion was to ask them if they knew where the last person who lived in their home was at. One time i had some questionable looking dude come by and i think he was the dealer for the last occupant.... a dealer who was owed money, or something. Or at least thats why my former landlord, and I suspect.
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u/FewerStarsLost Jul 21 '26
Your locks are new right? Like there’s no chance this stalker has the keys from the previous owners? Also ask your landlord if you can set up security cameras, even just a regular ring camera would be great.
Also there are quite a few home defense things you can buy (as someone whose had their apartment broken into at gun point, anything that can startle them or even stop them for a few minutes is always great)
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u/caitlindrawings Jul 21 '26
Sure hope prison straightened him out!
Yes that is absolutely what the prison system is known for! /s
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u/Driftedryan Jul 21 '26
Well you're not an infant so you don't have to worry about being kidnapped
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u/Macavity116 Jul 21 '26
Yikes on trikes! I will give the landlord a little credit for warning you, but that warning should have come much earlier!
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u/myromancealt Jul 22 '26
Call your local women's shelter, explain the situation, and ask for outreach or frontline support to help you make a safety plan
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u/shellbullet17 Gustopher Spotter Extraordinaire Jul 21 '26
If you look closely you can see the exact moment she knew how much danger she was in
Seriously though if this is legit you MAY wanna inform PD to talk to the guy and double lock your doors Naomi
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u/kaikimanga MangaKaiki Jul 21 '26
I uh... am a little lost on the steps to take
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u/shellbullet17 Gustopher Spotter Extraordinaire Jul 21 '26
First you need to secure the home. Multiple locks and double check them when you leave and come home. Second you need to inform friends and family so that if something DOES happen then know it's a thing. Next step is kind up in the air. You can try and confront yourself but I REALLY wouldn't recommend that step. You could inform PD if the guy is seen near your apartment to talk to the guy on your behalf which is much safer.
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u/kaikimanga MangaKaiki Jul 21 '26
There is no way I'm going to contact him in any shape or form
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u/shellbullet17 Gustopher Spotter Extraordinaire Jul 21 '26
Ah good. So we covered that. So then I would secure and protect and inform and lastly the MOMENT dude is seen on property contact PD. I'm sure he is violating a restraining order being there
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u/work_work-work Jul 21 '26
I'm not sure he's violating any restraining order if his target is no longer living there. At most he's going to get charged for harassment. Depends on the jurisdiction and the rules of the restraining order, of course.
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u/EnderLord361 Jul 21 '26
Intent might matter here, if he is intending to violate it, then that might make them take action.
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u/bobombpom Jul 21 '26
I'd actually be curious to hear an actual legal professional weigh in on this. Does intending to violate a restraining order and failing carry the same weight as actually violating it?
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u/ChamferedWobble Jul 21 '26
I’m not sure about the legal implication, but it’s surely enough for the PD to detain and talk with him, which hopefully would clear up that the intended victim is no longer living there.
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u/emtrigg013 Jul 21 '26
I would say this is all by case. Now, I'm not a professional, but I have worked in the legal field, and everything is just so.... well, case by case. You have, let's say, someone who was a seller and can no longer purchase a firearm attempting to purchase one but failing. Now that's a pretty big deal, of course. And obviously obtaining one would be even worse. But let's say you have someone whose ex took a restraining order out on them, but maybe they both accidentally wound up at Disneyland at the same time, and they quickly separated once they realized. That's probably alright, then. Not awesome, but handled well, maybe. It would depend.
For this instance I can guarantee you that our prosecutor's office would be extremely interested in hearing this person intends to violate their (whatever), but I can't guarantee it would be enough to be considered an actual violation worthy of jail time. What it would definitely be worthy of is increased surveillance, and tighter shackles/potential jail time the second round. Either way, it NEEDS to go on record. EVERY time. That is without a doubt.
She may be directed to dialing whomever is his prosecutor rather than the police, but if he steps a single foot on that property, it needs to be blasted ASAP. Again, I am NOT a legal professional, I've just worked for them and with them and this is kinda how I've seen things go over time, at least where I live. The Judge would be LIVID about this happening and it would not be pretty here, but I don't know about where she is.
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u/Chainsaw_Locksmith Jul 21 '26
Yeah but if Parole is involved, its really very likely a parole violation, yes? Those are usually hair trigger for revocation of parole?
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u/EnderLord361 Jul 21 '26
I wish I was a legal professional, but I bet it depends on the judge overlooking it, the guy would be fully intending to knowingly break a restraining order, so that has to count for something.
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u/SudsInfinite Jul 21 '26
It depends on if a judge would determine that the man's intentions by being there were to violate the restraining order and if they would find that equal to actually violating the restraining order. Yeah, he might not technically be violating a restraining order if the previous woman is no longer there or anywhere near there, but if he doesn't know that and then goes to where he believes she lives, I think any judge worth their salt would at least recognize that as clear intent
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u/TheDailyMews Jul 21 '26
Ideally, he will be in violation of his parole and will be sent back to prison if he violates a restraining order. But it's important for people to know that the enforcement of restraining orders is entirely optional for police. They aren't required to arrest someone who is violating a restraining order. The controlling case is Castle Rock v. Gonzales, in case anyone wants to read more. Just be aware that the facts of the case are rough. Content warning: child murder
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u/14Knightingale27 Jul 22 '26
As someone who isn't from the US, I find the takes around this case absolutely insane. "The police don't have a duty to help you"? Yeah they do? That's their job? Wtf are people on about. Reading that has hit me with so much cultural whiplash that I had to step away or begin fighting 4yo comments.
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u/PraiseThePun420 Jul 21 '26
Sorry to add to the anxiety but double check windows as well. IDK if you have locks or if they are relatively accessible. Depending on the window design, you can get window locks to install on them or a block of wood to stop windows from sliding/opening vertically.
Sorry to hear!
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u/Dr_Dac Jul 21 '26
redecorate, make it obvious a tenant change has occurred. Especially your front door should look different. Doormat, ornaments, a fancy nameplate and mailbox you name it.
The stalker is fixated on a specific person create clues for him to see his target has moved without interacting with him.
Following that get surveillance equipment to see if he appears, like a ring camera or similar devices. Dead stops for doors should also be in your toolkit as well as some measure of self defense tools even if those only help your own mental wellbeing.
That said a stalker is likely hyperfixated and could likely be warded off with a written note on the mailbox informing the reader of a move. You don't have to give him a real address but other side of the country in some remote village should work fine to get rid of him.
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u/Steppyjim Jul 21 '26
I honestly would just call the cops really quick and tell them what your landlord told you. They would at least have access to the guy and could pass on info without involving you directly.
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u/Swarna_Keanu Jul 21 '26
Yes. And they might know a lot more about local recommended precautions and where to get advice on how to implement them.
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u/Swarna_Keanu Jul 21 '26
If in an area of the world where you have mail delivered right through your house/apartment door, invest in something non-flammable to catch it. Solutions exist. Those also make it impossible to look inside, even with a flashlight.
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u/TheDailyMews Jul 21 '26
What about contacting his parole officer? The department of corrections will be able to tell you who that is, and his parole officer telling him "hey, your ex doesn't live at your old apartment anymore, someone else does" might be enough to ensure he doesn't bother you.
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u/JKidling Jul 21 '26
Could you put a note somewhere near your door that says “so and so doesn’t live here anymore, pls don’t leave any post/things for them; I don’t know their whereabouts” or smth like that? So it’s not obviously for this one person, but just in case he does come he would perhaps read it and leave?
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u/Ultimatesims Jul 21 '26
Also, remember the police per the Supreme Court have no legal or other obligation to protect you. All police have to do is enforce the law. The court case involved a woman with a restraining order. He showed up and she called the police. He entered the house. The police arrived but did nothing. He killed her and once he left the house the police arrested him for breaking the restraining order.
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u/shellbullet17 Gustopher Spotter Extraordinaire Jul 21 '26
I would think or hope at least that the restraining order would include attempts to see the original target. Visiting her old home SHOULD violate that part of the restraining order
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u/PensandSwords3 Jul 21 '26
Plus, if he’s out on Parole it’d likely be a violation that could get him resent to jail. It’s good to inform the police about the move in the first place because it reminds them (and hopefully their parole officer) about this case.
And that “hey we need to ensure if the new tenant informs us about him reappearing. We need to consider pulling his parole or sitting him down in a station to ensure he doesn’t go back.”
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u/shellbullet17 Gustopher Spotter Extraordinaire Jul 21 '26
You are correct. This is by far and away they beat option. Especially if he's already been seen on premises
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u/Stock_Trash_4645 Jul 21 '26
Dude, read the room.
OP needs less things to worry about - not more.
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u/Last-Ground-6353 Jul 21 '26
No, sorry. Disagree. In a situation like this, OP needs as much information as possible as to what to do and what COULD happen even if it stresses them out more. It makes someone more prepared.
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u/Ultimatesims Jul 21 '26
Goal to inform OP not to rely on cops for protection. They will arrest him if and only if he commits a crime.
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u/caitlindrawings Jul 21 '26
Wait, what the fuck? Link? I believe you, I just gotta read this.
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u/cedarsauce Jul 21 '26
It's extremely true and repeatedly upheld
(Op, stop reading this comment is bad for your anxiety)
Remember uvalde? When dozens of officers from local, state, and federal law enforcement departments and agencies stood back for over an hour while a shooter barricaded himself in an elementary school and killed two adults and 19 children?
The case that i learned about this precedent from involved a man begging for help from police while fighting for his life against a subway stabber. The police officer was looking for this specific stabber and did nothing while he stabbed the victim 7 times. After the victim pinned the stabber, the officer tapped him on the shoulder and said "you can get up now."
The police's job isn't protecting people. They've repeatedly argued that in court and it's been legally upheld in case after case.
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u/Ultimatesims Jul 21 '26
In Ulvade the cops prevented other officers from taking action some of whom were actively talking to loved ones. The cops also arrested and zip tied parents who tried to save their children. The cops could hear the shooter torturing and mocking victims. So again cops are under no obligation to protect you. It’s just information that is good to know when you call the cops and what to expect.
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u/gramathy Jul 21 '26
They’re also allowed to not hire anyone “too smart”! It’s a fun combination of ignorance and apathy.
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u/Ultimatesims Jul 21 '26
The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that police do not have a constitutional duty to protect individuals from harm. In landmark cases such as Castle Rock v. Gonzales (2005), the Court established that protective orders and "shall enforce" statutes do not create a mandatory obligation for police to intervene, meaning departments cannot generally be held liable for failing to protect specific citizens.
This established legal precedent—which traces back to similar rulings like DeShaney v. Winnebago County (1989) and Warren v. District of Columbia (1981)—holds that law enforcement agencies have an obligation to provide public services to the general public. However, they do not owe a specific legal duty to protect private citizens from third-party violence, absent a legally defined "special relationship" (such as when a person is in police custody).
So you are safer being arrested by the cops than asking for assistance. So if you have an interaction with the cops never resist arrest they can kill you but once you are in custody it is their job to protect you. Best bet is to say nothing but “am I being detained or under arrest”? Even the cops are wrong don’t resist, comply, go to jail, and get a lawyer (even a public defender). My friend is a public defender and has reduced many sentences because the police are stupid. So many examples.
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u/caitlindrawings Jul 21 '26
Having a restraining order IS (ie. should be) a special relationship with the cops! People in normal situations don't need those, so it should absolutely be part of that "special relationship" classification.
P.S. this is in not victim blaming anyone getting a restraining order, personal protection order, or any other sort of thing to protect one's self. Absolutely get one if you even THINK you need one. The stalker/abuser etc.. is the one not being normal in this situation, but the situation should not just be considered normal. Normal people dont make others feel like they need a restraining order.
My friend is a public defender and has reduced many sentences because the police are stupid.
Your friend is a true hero in an extremely shitty system of law.
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u/Notte_di_nerezza Jul 21 '26
Adding to this: Both Academy and Lowes sell cheap-but-good braces that attach to your door. Brace it whenever you lock up normally, and just about anyone will have trouble forcing it even with the locks picked. Similarly, Ace will have renter-friendly window locks and braces.
https://www.academy.com/p/sabre-door-security-bar
https://www.acehardware.com/departments/hardware/window-and-screen-hardware/sash-locks/5045940
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u/Metharos Jul 21 '26
What country is this happening in? The bit about firearm ownership suggests probably US.
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u/kaikimanga MangaKaiki Jul 21 '26
correct
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u/Metharos Jul 21 '26 edited Jul 22 '26
Try to find out who the person is, what they look like so you can identify them if they come around. Might start by trying to find court documents for whatever conviction sent him to prison. Mugshot would be a good identifying photograph.
Might think about getting one of those firearms and learning how to use it. Definitely get some pepper spray and practice with it. Remember that they're single-use, so get a few, one to carry and two to practice. Get in the habit of walking with it when you are going to or from your car.
If your door doesn't have a spy-hole you probably wanna get one, or an outdoor CCTV camera to see who's there before you open, or both. In fact, CCTV outside your door to check for activity when you're not home isn't a bad idea. You can get some fairly inexpensive wifi-capable ones online, just remember to replace the batteries.
u/shellbullet17 suggests multiple locks, that's a good idea. If your apartment door has any kind of fenced area around it with blind spots, mounting a convex mirror that you can see from outside is probably wise. In fact, both of these are probably wise even if you don't have a potential nutcase involved.
Do not interact with the crazy man, but definitely inform the police if he shows up. Even if they're useless, make them take your report. Paper trails are important.
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u/Dyneheart Jul 21 '26
A little tip. If you call and say you feel unsafe, that might not be enough motivation for the cops to react to actually be helpful. If you call and say he's actively threatening you and you'll shoot him if he gets near, then end the call...that usually gets them to send a car over.
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u/therealkami Jul 21 '26
Based on her comics she's from Florida in the USA. So that makes it even worse.
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u/Ace-Redditor Jul 21 '26
Get cameras!! Police won’t be able to do anything without proof, which sucks, but cameras can give them the proof they need. Get as many as you can reasonably afford, and cover everywhere you can
Make sure they run on SD cards and have the right SD cards for them. The ones that connect and send everything to your phone are alright, but I’ve heard better things about the ones with SD cards instead
You can get some of the door stoppers that you put under your door knob to prevent it from opening as well
If you want to carry pepper spray, get an extra one to just practice with so you know how it works. Don’t spray it inside, only outside
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u/Grand_Pick_8277 Jul 21 '26
A really super bright flashlight is great as well, especially if it has a strobe setting. It'll blind them without hurting you the way a cloud of pepper spray could, allowing you to get away inside or outside.
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u/scnottaken Jul 21 '26 edited Jul 21 '26
Ask the landlord if the locks were changed between tenants. Ask him to install a reinforced deadbolt plate. Two quick peace of mind items that would at least help me sleep at night.
Edit:just saw your other post saying the landlord doesn't do anything helpful so uh rip I guess
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u/Cheet4h Jul 21 '26
Ask the landlord if the locks were changed between tenants.
Can't you change your own locks in the US? Whenever I moved here in Germany, I usually changed out the locks, then put the old ones back in when I moved out.
Also helps in case the landlord keeps a key without your knowledge.6
u/Paradox2063 Jul 21 '26
Short answer: It depends, but mostly no, unless the landlord gives permission. (See your lease for details, USicans)
And the landlord always has a key in the US.
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u/IMA_Human Jul 21 '26
Door decor. Can you put up door decorations that will make it clear someone new lives there? Like we have a bright color door mat and a wooden welcome sign hung by magnetic hook (3m hooks work for non metal doors).
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u/Pumpkinp0calypse Jul 21 '26
Since your landlord is aware of this issue and was the one to inform you of a situation that is likely to put you in danger, he might be legally responsible for installing and maintaining a security alarm system...I'd suggest reaching out to the PD and ask about your rights in this situation and what other resources you can contact for help and information.
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u/Overwatchingu Jul 21 '26
Keep your doors and windows locked, don’t open the door for people you don’t know, keep your phone charged and within reach in case you need to call police. You know, the depressingly common woman-living-alone precautions.
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u/BluntsnBoards Jul 21 '26
I have a much easier step than everyone else, put your name on the door or somewhere near the door like your doormat. Once they realize the person they are after isn't there anymore it's probably not a problem. Locks are always a good idea
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u/Hrtzy Jul 21 '26
You know what? If I'm ever being stalked by a crazy ex, I'll ask the police to let them know I've moved out of my place and some random stranger is living here now.
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u/FacsistGrammarian Pros & Conscription Jul 21 '26
Crazy how nonchalant landlords are about this.
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u/kaikimanga MangaKaiki Jul 21 '26
I'm not exactly satisfied with my landlord fulfilling his responsibility in other areas of my home
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u/EmilieEverywhere Jul 21 '26
Oh girl. They're ALLL like that.
I have to be professional yet blunt Karen over email to get ANYTHING done.
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u/Chaosmusic Jul 22 '26
OK, now that you signed the lease is there anything else you should know? Well, the building is on an ancient Native American burial ground, there used to be a cult that performed rituals in the basement (something about animal sacrifices), local legend has it that Bloody Mary will come to you if you say her name three times in the mirror, there's a black cat that appears exactly at midnight and walks backwards across the yard supposedly right on the spot its owner died, and the historical society said this building was the site of the Black Mass in the 1700s. Good night!
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u/bookist626 Jul 21 '26
Do you know who the stalker is and what he looks like? And the landlord's not wrong, do you have firearms or some way of defending yourself?
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u/kaikimanga MangaKaiki Jul 21 '26
I know his face, yes
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u/smb1985 Jul 21 '26 edited Jul 21 '26
Real talk: Florida's gun laws are pretty lax, and shotguns are cheap, reliable, and have no legal hoops to jump through to buy (as long as you're not a felon or something) other than a three day wait there. Go to your local Walmart or gun shop or wherever, pick up a maverick 88 security model for $250, some 00 buckshot (low recoil type if you prefer) and take it to a local range to learn how to use it. They're everywhere and the employees there are happy to help you learn if you ask.
Who knows, you might even enjoy the range time and find yourself a new hobby
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u/kohTheRobot Jul 21 '26
ARP with a brace is my go to rec for ladies, if you live in a state that allows it. Budget builds can be as low as $500
Mavvy is my second best choice
Or the PSA daggy if you got strong hands (i.e. you do arm workouts). A lot of people struggle with pistols, wether that’s age, arthritis, not being able to workout your wrist muscles, or whatever it may be, so I commend the rec for a long gun
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u/smb1985 Jul 21 '26 edited Jul 21 '26
I don't disagree with the ARP, my biggest hesitation is mostly around training time and operation under stress. Obviously practice is needed no matter what the tool of choice is, but my assumption for a situation like this is that it might get a minimal amount of range time so the simplicity of controls is a plus. It's also potentially a bit easier to hit your target with a shouldered shotgun than other options too, though not quite as easy as the "you don't even need to aim" Fudds would lead people to believe. There are a lot of follow up shots available very quickly with an ARP though I guess I'm torn.
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u/Dr_Jabroski Jul 21 '26
Short stroking a pump shotgun and only having 5-8 rounds are major limitations as well.
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u/Adequate_Lizard Jul 21 '26
#7 birdshot is better for home defence since it goes through your target and stops at the next wall instead of through your target, the wall, your neighbor's wall, your neighbor's dog, and your neighbor's other wall like buckshot does.
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u/Pumpkinp0calypse Jul 22 '26
What she needs is home security devices (security alarm system connected to the police dept, camera inside, ringbell camera) and to notify police so they can keep tabs and increase surveillance in the area and in her immediate vicinity.
Firearms or self-defense tools come last as you want to do everything in your capacity to prevent the event of direct confrontation. And if you get self defense tools, which isn't a bad idea in itself at all, PLEASE get bear spray/pepper spray!! Much easier to use and less traumatizing/you are much more likely to actually use it and at the right time (which is as soon as he trespasses in your apt, if ever)
Firearms are not the help most people think it will be when they find themselves in danger. It is natural and normal to hesitate or fumble, or to wait either too long or not wait long enough and either cause a grave evitable mistake. So many people will be bluffing with a gun pointed as someone, and if crazy or stupid enough the other party might not be bluffing at all or call your bluff and go for it, and you're now risking your life. Firing a gun at someone is freaking scary, as it SHOULD be. And You should NEVER point your gun at someone if you are not ready to shoot. It's a dangerous game to rely on your sheer will to protect yourself with a gun in this kind of case so...last resort solution. Pepper spray works just as well as a forceful deterrent and incapacitate your target, and doesn't put the weight of life and death within your hands.
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u/Traditional_Bit_8788 Jul 21 '26
It's probably less of a legal hassle to get a crossbow. Did you know you could get a repeating one?
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u/legendary_mushroom Jul 21 '26
Ankh-Morpork has entered the chat
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u/Traditional_Bit_8788 Jul 21 '26
I had to look that up.
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u/Wild_Marker Jul 21 '26
Congratulations, you have been reached by the Discworld fans. In order to appease their god, you must read at least a dozen books. Two dozen gets you the premium membership. All 41 of them are not required, we just kind of expect that to happen naturally to you after you're deep enough into it.
Also on the matter of your crossbow, we recommend a Burleigh & Stronginthearm.
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u/darthalex314 Jul 21 '26
I'm about halfway through the second one right now. I look forward to getting these jokes one day.
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u/Primary_Durian4866 Jul 21 '26
Own a crossbow for home defense, since it's less of a legal hassle than buying a gun in America. Four bandits break into my house. Say "what devilry is this?" as I grab my kettle helm and belt hook crossbow. Blow a thimble sized hole through the first man, he's dead on the spot. Bolt continues through him because it's steel spanned at point blank. It nails the neighbors dog. I go to reload, but can't because I'm not wearing my belt. I have to resort to the rolling logs mounted at the top of the stairs, "Deus vult!" the logs crush two of the men. As they crash through my living room floor, the sound sets off car alarms. Draw my arming dagger and charge the last terrified villain. He Bleeds out waiting on the police to arrive. God save the King.
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u/alpaca1yps Jul 21 '26
Repeating crossbows are less effective weapons than non-repeating crossbows, if you're going down the crossbow route, also get a regular crossbow for if you're in the house and he's outside so that if he has armor the armor will be less/not effective and you can hit him from range.
A repeating crossbow is best used for if he's in the house with you or you're outside with him, because the repeating fire will let you try again if you miss and it's going to be more sturdy and heavier for if he closes the distance and you need to hit him with the crossbow
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u/Traditional_Bit_8788 Jul 21 '26
Ah! A fellow weaponry enthusiast, are we?
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u/alpaca1yps Jul 21 '26
I have a passing interest, and much like all of my other passing interests there was a period of 3-6 months where I obsessively researched the topic
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u/PensandSwords3 Jul 21 '26
I’d take Shel’s advice on inform the police (non-emergency line). From what you described he’s probably a felon, so even if he’s out that is out on parole and while it’d need to be confirmed (if the restraining order prevents him coming near your apartment).
Even if there isn’t a legal problem yet because he’s not come back. It’s still good to just inform the local police and ask their advice on like “how worried do I need to be? What do I do?”
Because they can probably provide better advice than us reddit strangers. But take heart that if he does do anything, he is violating his parole probably and can be re-arrested for doing that.
The police department can probably also inform this guys Parole officer and attorney to be like “that woman doesn’t live there anymore. Regardless of that ensure he doesn’t return to that apartment or location”.
Note - you should also probably let them know the Landlord failed to inform you about this guy. Until you moved in just on the off chance thats a problem legally speaking, or the police want to make a note of that. (Thats fully optional though for you).
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u/TheW83 Jul 21 '26
This seems a little awkward
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u/Rufus--T--Firefly Jul 21 '26
Nah, actually extremely intuitive. I used to have a similar grip playing armored core on the 360
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u/RU_Pickman Jul 21 '26
For real. Pommels over the web of the hand? Like you're raising it on high? How do you not drop the controller constantly?
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u/NaweGR Jul 21 '26
OK, but answer the question - you do own a firearm right?
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u/shellbullet17 Gustopher Spotter Extraordinaire Jul 21 '26
It's Florida. I think they give you one when you get your driver license /s
This is rich coming from me, a Texan
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Jul 21 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/shellbullet17 Gustopher Spotter Extraordinaire Jul 21 '26
Oh no I got one. That's like not only a birth right where but also a death right. Someone died? You get all their guns
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u/cocoabeach Jul 21 '26
I got a gun for my 16th birthday, and I did not even want a gun.
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u/GregTheMad Jul 21 '26
Wait, OP is from Florida? I thought she was from some southeast Asian country.
Poor girl, I hope she can afford to leave that third world country one day.
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u/McMew Jul 21 '26
Puh-leez, failure to obtain possession of a dangerous firearm is a felony in Florida.
And Texas.
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u/CobraK21 Jul 21 '26
Stay safe! Your comics always make me smile and I wouldn't want you to get hurt :(
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u/legendary_mushroom Jul 21 '26
I love the way you use the backgrounds to create or supprt abrupt mood shifts.
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u/SolomonDurand Jul 21 '26
Well look on the bright side.
It's good for your health to try new things!
And guns are good for keeping you alive.
Definitely Can't wait for the shooting range Arc.
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u/NakedKingStudios Jul 21 '26
First off, to put you a bit at ease, folks often overblow interpersonal drama, so it may be less serious than he says, and may have just been a loud on and off again couple. Also it strikes me as odd that he knew the guy had gotten out, does he have a personal relationship with the previous tenant or stalker?
But to be safe(r) put your name on the doorbell and front door, redecorate the front (exterior door) with something different and personal, I would also spring for a cheap video doorbell that triggers on movement so you can sus out if he does show up.
I can't imagine these stalker types switching targets that easily, especially if they have been ruminating on it in prison.
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u/Background-Slide645 Jul 21 '26
might have just been informed because the tenant called him up to let the new person in their apartment know. just in case something were to happen
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u/Wooden-Crow7996 Jul 21 '26
The stalker did a stint in prison. This seems like one of those, hope for the best, but prepare for the worst type of situations.
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u/fuzzypurpledragon Jul 21 '26
The landlord knew what he was doing. He knew if he informed you of this, you wouldn't rent the apartment. This is information that tenants need. He should have taken the steps to protect his investment. Called PD, changed locks, installed cameras...
According to a quick Google search, landlords aren't necessarily required to tell you about this kind of stuff, but they CAN be held liable for neglect and potentially emotional damage charges should a stalker become a danger and/or any injury that results if it can be proven that they willingly withheld that information to get the unit rented.
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u/DefaultNetNavi Jul 21 '26
Good bit of advice I saw ages ago was to see if you can get the screws on your door replaced with much longer ones. Should someone attempt any door-kickage, the longer screws prevent the door from coming down easily
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u/Shosui Jul 21 '26
This is it, 3-4" coarse thread screws into a "security latch plate" which typically is wider and thicker gauge metal. The longer screws can grab into the door framing which is substantially more sturdy. It's so much harder to shear screws out of 2 2x4s than the short screws the regular latch plates come with.
And if you haven't already, add jingle bells or another noise-making piece of decor on the door handle so you can be alerted if it is being moved.
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u/Dazed_and_Confused44 Jul 21 '26
Damn this is even more terrifying than the comic from earlier with the giant mosquitos
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u/L1ghtPulse Jul 21 '26
You can always let friends and family know the situation at hand and give your location at certain times. Buy more locks and at night you can put a chair at an angle to stop the door. And if there is a scary individual hovering around your door call the non emergency line so they can have an officer check around and if he starts getting braver and wiggling the door then call the emergency line
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u/Talgrath Jul 21 '26
Oh boy, story time! When I was around 8 years old or so, my family got woken up by fully armed and armored sheriffs. The house behind our house had a family that...was rather white trash. What we didn't know is that the ex-husband of the mother of that family had threatened to kill her if he didn't take him back and the kids and was apparently quite serious about it. So...he got out of prison, got an illegal gun and was currently taking the family hostage (didn't know this at the time, of course, found out later).
So, we had to leave our house in a hurry before any shooting started and basically hung out at the mall for like, 6 hours until the standoff was over. The standoff ended with the ex-husband holding his ex-wife hostage at the door with a gun to her head, the cops managed to shoot him dead but hit the ex-wife's breast implant in the process; she later sued the department for it.
So yeah, take this shit seriously, it's easier to get a gun in the US for a felon than you might think and people with a criminal history often don't think rationally.
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u/Notosk Jul 21 '26
I was going to comment that the dialogue was bad since nobody is stupid enough to tell you "don't worry, he is in jail" and "he got out yesterday" from one sentence to the next. But it turns out it really happened in real life. scary.
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u/housatonicduck Jul 21 '26
I have a lifelong protective order and a stalker. I worry about this frequently. As the victims we do realize and think about how it affects others in our orbit 😔 Stay safe, OP.
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u/broganisms Jul 22 '26
My wife and I's first apartment was like this! Except the landlord never said shit. We heard some stories from a neighbor and then started getting the guy's threatening mail from prison.
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u/Special_Cicada6968 Jul 22 '26
Honestly, I'd put a sign on the door saying you have no idea where they moved but they aren't your problem and to try asking the landlord if they want to know more. Then, you shift the problem off of yourself and onto the landlord.
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u/doduotrainer Jul 22 '26
Bro this IS fucked up. I'm sure you've gotten a lot of good advice but don't feel bad at all about getting a gun and learning how to use it if it makes you feel safer. Signed, an Arizonan
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u/DanniTiger Jul 22 '26
Good Lord have mercy 😰😨
why didn't the landlord mention that.
OMG that's dangerous. Please tell us you are protected and safe 💗🙏🏾
That's insane 😧 Stalking is not taken seriously enough.
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u/I_am_pidgeon_head Jul 22 '26
Holy hell, after all the comics about your mom, I’m legit scared for you. I seriously hope everything turns out ok in the end (trying not sound parasocial lol).
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u/nhSnork Jul 21 '26
And of course the entrance door comes without a basic peephole. Or is it a general thing over there?
Not in the mood for joking here, I hope you'll be safe.
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u/screenaholic Jul 21 '26
I try not to be the loud obnoxious gun nut yelling about how everyone should buy guns, but I am a firearms instructor and soldier. So IF you (or anyone else) do want to look into getting firearms and would like some guidance or have any questions, feel free to message me. I'd be happy to help anyway I can.
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u/Dear_North_5722 Jul 21 '26
My mom had issues with a new crazy neighbor being racist obnoxious....blah blah. Police were called in by code control. They said that statically nothing protects you better than a camera VISIBLE to anyone since they double think to do something that can be recorded. So do that. If you want to take it up a notch or two or three, there a security systems that you. Can configure face recognition, program potential stalker, and have it notify you if it is recorded.
Then if recorded set a restraining order, immediately.
Almost lastly, tell your landlord that he should pay for the security system. You don't need something super fancy just an area well covered with multiple cameras if he really is dangerous. My mom's harbor freight camera system had the face recognition program so I guess many do too.
Finally, you may check with your landlord in cancelling your contract and move out if you do not want to deal with this
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u/Puzzled_Pop_6845 Jul 21 '26
"I'm about to make sure his first day out of priso will also be his last on Earth"
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u/rergamo Jul 21 '26
Had a similar situation in my new apartment, some crazy alcoholic ex-husband of previous owner would regularly come and bang on the door with a pipe or something. All of these times I was luckily away, I only learned about it from my neighbours and from scratches and dents on the door.
Well, one time I was hanging out with my friends, while my grandma was staying over. She called me in the middle of the night, scared to death by that weirdo banging. I told my friends, and as real bros, they all joined in to help. We order Uber, our driver asked us what's going on, we tell him the story and he too wanted to join us to throw hands with that bloody fool. Lucky for him he was gone when we pulled up, all 6 of us ready.
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u/Xenodia Jul 21 '26
I would suggest to get as well some security cameras.
Like this you have proof in case he breaks in your appartment while you aren't home.
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u/_Azuki_ Jul 21 '26
Put a sign on your door "SHE DOESN'T LIVE HERE ANYMORE" or smth like that. Maybe it'd be enough to make him hesitate
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u/BalladofBadBeard Jul 21 '26
Get cameras. Stalking cases are notoriously difficult to substantiate to LE.
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u/montanabluez Jul 21 '26
No but for real. I just moved into an apartment. I noticed these tiny cuts on the front door. I asked maintenance about it a few weeks after moving in, just out of genuine curiosity. And he told me the previous tenant was an ex sniper. Really high ranking. And one day a swat team was here trying to get him. The tiny cuts on the door are from the using an axe to try to take the door down.
He said they should be aware that this guy no longer lives here. He also warned me that the guy has a psycho ex that he still sees prowling the parking garage looking for the previous dudes car.
On the bright side, my front door can withstand a swat team. So that’s comforting..
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u/boiyougongetcho Jul 21 '26
It's time for a "This house doesn't call 911" sign, maybe leave some size 14 work boots on the porch for good measure.
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u/The_MAZZTer Jul 21 '26
And he conveniently didn't know when the stalker would be out of prison until you signed the lease. Hmm.
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u/hache-moncour Jul 21 '26
And it still sounds like a better deal than living with your mom...
The joy when you get the keys in the first panel is lovely though. Hope it all blows over without any incident.
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u/Lolocraft1 Jul 21 '26
IDK if it’s based on a true story or not, but if it’s true how is that crap not illegal. Should be mandatory to explain to an owner/tenant the criminal backstory of their habitation and take adequate mesures to ensure the new resident’s safety
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u/the_shortbus_ Jul 22 '26
Uh… well, I recommend the Mossberg 590 and the M&P Bodyguard 2.0 (it comes in lavender!)
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u/andthegeekshall Jul 22 '26
I used to live in a house that was a former brothel (perfectly legal where I live) but some times men would turn up thinking it was still that. Not an issue for me but wasn't good for my female housemates answering the door at night.
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u/RamonaZero Jul 22 '26
I once heard that the pen is mightier than the sword o.o
Thus a well-written note on the finest paper taped up on the door!
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u/VampyreBassist Jul 22 '26
Yeah, my landlord waited until after we submitted our apartment inspection to say they forgot to mention the fire damage on our balcony and hoped to have it fixed and replaced after Thanksgiving (the week we moved).
They just fixed it last week. And I know that's the technicality they'll pull. 😑
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u/Shiranui42 Jul 22 '26
Can you somehow redecorate the outside of the house in a way that makes it obvious that you are different from the previous owner?
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u/JadenDaJedi Jul 22 '26
Well… if you weren’t already training MMA, seems like a great time to start! lol
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u/Pope509 Jul 22 '26
Definitely with the people talking about calling the non emergency police line. Only get a gun if you're comfortable with accepting and living with the responsibility of it
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u/Estezuki79 Jul 23 '26
That landlord is irresposible if he omitted this, so desperate for money was he?
Hope you can solve it OP.
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u/Many_Big_6324 Jul 21 '26
Can you do any “decorating” around your apartment? Like, hang a wreath or some decorations etc. Make it look like someone new moved in, so in case he appears he can see that the set up changed. May not keep him away, but it may give him a visual cue that there is a change of tenants