For years, I have presented training classes at conferences across Texas. Without fail, I hear stories of officers being followed — sometimes during field or home visits, other times on the drive home. What’s most alarming is how many officers may never notice it happening. That possibility alone is enough to create concern. After research and reflection, I developed a plan to help officers recognize and respond when they are being followed.
The hard truth
If you work in community corrections, there are two main types of people who may follow you before or after work hours: a romantically involved person such as a current or former love interest, or a client (including former clients). Most of the stories I have come across involve clients. Why would a client follow you? If I put on my “criminal hat,” my guess would be to conduct research on you — research that could make you a target.
The homework
Criminals, especially the smarter ones, conduct research on potential targets to find ways to harm them. A well-prepared criminal may follow you to learn your habits, routines and even what you drive. They will also search social media. For those of us in community corrections, many criminals already know where we work and what we drive, which makes us an easier target.
The client
Working in community corrections means working with criminals. The reason a client might select you as a target is not always clear — it could be revenge, fascination, or something else. The focus should not be on why but on how to recognize and respond if you are being followed.
Staying alert to threats
A client or former client may watch you closely to size you up, make plans, and wait for the right opportunity. Being aware of this is critical.
Building self-awareness
Always pay attention to your surroundings. Self-awareness gives you time and opportunity to avoid dangerous situations. Working in criminal justice requires a constant focus on safety for yourself and your family.
When repeated sightings matter
Seeing a client in one location is not cause for alarm. Seeing them in multiple unrelated locations is. For example, if you see a client at a restaurant, then again at the courthouse, and later at a gas station, that is a red flag. One sighting may be chance, but three or more should activate your self-awareness.
Using the three-spot rule
The first step to confirming if you are being followed is to notice what is happening around you. A helpful guideline is the “three-spot view”:
- One time — an accident
- Two times — a coincidence
- Three times — a concern
Trust your gut feelings. Many of us in criminal justice develop what I call a “spider sense.” If it tells you something is wrong, be prepared.
Recognizing patterns in a car
If you suspect you are being followed in a car:
- In the city: Make several right turns. If the car is still behind you after the third or fourth turn, you are likely being followed.
- On the freeway: Get off, then immediately get back on. If the car is still behind you, your suspicion is confirmed.
- Slow down: Move to the right lane and drive below the speed limit. If other cars pass but one car does not, that is a concern.
Taking defensive steps in a vehicle
If you confirm you are being followed:
- Keep moving with traffic so the suspect cannot easily pass you.
- Note the car’s make, model and license plate.
- Roll up your windows, lock your doors and do not stop.
- Do not drive home — head to a public area like a grocery store or gas station.
- Once parked, call police and provide the information you collected.
- Do not exit your vehicle until officers arrive.
- Request an incident report for documentation.
Safety on foot
Avoid being a routine walker. Change your route and times frequently. If you repeatedly see the same person no matter where or when, they may be following you. Use the same three-spot guideline.
Someone following you on foot will often match your pace. Speed up, slow down, or pause and watch their reaction.
Stopping to tie your shoe or stretch gives you a chance to observe whether someone is shadowing you.
Look directly at the person so they know you are aware of them. Do not escalate — simply acknowledge them and remove yourself from the area. Avoid communication or small talk. Make a mental note of who you saw.
If a glance does not deter them, take a picture openly. A selfie works well. Send the photo to a coworker or friend. Stay in a public, well-lit area until the person leaves.
If the individual persists, call 911. If you are on foot, move to a group of people until officers arrive.
It is not Hollywood, it is reality
Being followed by a client in a car or on foot is not just a movie scenario — it is a dangerous reality. Staying alert is key. Consider taking a self-defense class or carrying lawful protective tools like pepper spray or a firearm. Knowing how to protect yourself enhances safety and reduces your chances of being targeted.
Preventive strategies that work
To avoid becoming a target:
- Vary your routines and routes.
- Avoid broadcasting your location on social media.
- Turn off location services on apps.
- Train yourself to remember faces, dates, and times.
- Trust your intuition — your “spider sense” is often correct.
Being followed — in a car or on foot — is not a Hollywood plotline. It is a real threat for community corrections officers and anyone in criminal justice. Staying safe means paying attention, breaking routines and trusting your instincts. Training, preparation and situational awareness are the best defenses against becoming a target. Above all, remember: vigilance protects not only you but also your family.
Tactical takeaway
Trust your “spider sense,” change up routines, and never ignore the signs that you are being followed — awareness and preparation can keep you safe.
What are your top safety tips for staying aware on and off duty? Share them below.
References
- Survival Sullivan. What to do when you’re being followed.
- Gear Patrol. Being followed? Here’s how to lose a tail.
- DefensiveDriving.com. What to do if someone is following you.
