Attempts have been made over the last several years to produce a classificatory system of stalkers, each with a different objective, to assist in the understanding of offender behavior and articulate strategies for good case management. This study set-out to develop a classificatory system of stalking oriented to the needs of law enforcement agencies. Based on 124 real-life cases, the system was to identify and partition offenders according to motivational orientation. The methodology used consisted of three distinct stages: (1) 124 stalking cases; (2) stalker classification; and (3) assessing the classification. Basic details of the 124 cases discussed included: demographic characteristics of victims; demographic characteristics of stalkers; duration; serial stalkers; victim-stalker prior relationship; the changing behavior of the stalker over time; and effects on the victim. On the basis of 124 cases 4 major stalker typologies were identified: (1) ex-partner harassment/stalking; (2) infatuation harassment; (3) delusional fixation stalking; and (4) sadistic stalking. It is noted that this system is not superior to other classifying systems. However, it focuses on the needs of law enforcement professionals. It differs in content and form, reflecting its different operational objectives. To assess the utility of the framework, three aspects must be considered: (1) the reliability of the classification; (2) the degree to which it can be comprehensible and relatively easy to apply; and (3) the system’s validity. Training programs in using this system take at least 3 days. There is an effort to develop and evaluate a guide in applying the system in order to speed up training. To date, it is difficult and too early to state that the system is effective across diverse Western countries. References