(a) Any person who suffers harm pursuant to chapter 59 of title 11 may recover his or her damages in a civil action against the offender. (b) As used in this section: (1) 'Course of conduct' means a pattern of conduct composed of a series of acts over a period of time, evidencing a continuity of purpose. Constitutionally protected activity is not included within the meaning of 'course of conduct.' (2) 'Harasses' means following a knowing and willful course of conduct directed at a specific person which seriously alarms, annoys, or bothers the person, and which serves no legitimate purpose. The course of conduct must be of a kind that would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress, or be in fear of bodily injury. History of Section.P.L. 2001, ch. 198, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 279, § 1.
Rhode Island Legal Code