My Stalking Case

Supreme Court of the United States

Coles Whalen Stalking Case

In January 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case examining how far First Amendment protections extend to threatening communications. The case involved a man who stalked musician Coles Whalen for years, sending thousands of disturbing messages.

In 2017, Billy Raymond Counterman was convicted of stalking via the true threats doctrine. In 2023, the case's appeal reached the Supreme Court of the United States, which overturned Counterman's conviction and restarted the trial process.

My Westword cover — Scared Silent

I’m honored to share that Westword Magazine, based in Denver, featured my story on their cover. Huge thanks to Bennito Kelty and Westword for following me — and this case — for all this time. I hope it helps you understand how terrifying stalking can be, and that it moves you to believe people when they say they’re afraid.

Want to know more about Coles' experience with Counterman v Colorado?

🎥 Watch Stalking the Stars

📄 Read her Supreme Court brief

Cameras are not permitted inside the Supreme Court, but the audio of every oral argument is made available to the public—listen to the official recording of Counterman v. Colorado.

Hear the oral arguments

Talking Stalking: Coles Whalen & Colorado AG Phil Weiser

Coles Whalen, singer-songwriter and stalking survivor, sits down with Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser to discuss her stalking case, its journey to the U.S. Supreme Court, and what the ruling means for victims’ rights nationwide.

Coles Whalen Statements

"The thousands of unstable messages sent to me were life-threatening and life-altering. I lived in fear, terrified that I was being followed and could be hurt at any moment. I ultimately stepped back from the music career I had worked so hard to build. I’m grateful that when I reported the messages, they were taken seriously, and many in law enforcement did everything they could to protect me."

"I’m disappointed that the Supreme Court’s decision has minimized the harm that stalking and threatening messages cause to victims and their families. Nonetheless, I hope the standard the Supreme Court established can be used in ways that allow for the protection of victims across the country. If you are afraid, please trust yourself and reach out for help. The Court’s decision does not mean that victims must stand alone."

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