Stratified random sampling of two data archives was used to gather a sample of 214 cases who had contacted entertainment celebrities and 86 who had contacted politicians. In addition, a non-random sample of 14 persons who had contacted members of Congress was reviewed. The analysis showed that 80 percent were male and that 90 percent were free and at large. The writers ranged from 14 to more than 90 years of age. Based on rigorous diagnostic criteria, high rates of mental disorder were measurable. Paranoid delusions occurred among 64 percent of those contacting entertainment celebrities and 80 percent of those contacting politicians. More than half had thought disorders, and about 10 percent reported hallucinations. Thirty risk factors were identified for approaches to entertainment celebrities; 36 for approaches to members of Congress. The data showed that about 12 percent of those sending an odd or threatening letter will attempt a physical encounter. Results indicated the need for an early warning system that will bring persons who are focused on public figures to the attention of their potential victims. Additional recommendations, tables, and 277 references