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I want to file a criminal complaint for intimidation, but I am afraid of retaliation.

A conflict arose with an acquaintance over a money matter, and that person keeps intimidating me these days. I have heard things like “I will really not let you get away with this” many times, and calls and messages keep coming. At first I thought it was just meant to scare me, but a few days ago, seeing that he even came to my home, I became truly frightened. I intend to file a complaint for intimidation, but I am worried that filing a complaint might make that person more agitated. Can I request personal protection while filing a criminal complaint for intimidation?

Criminal complaint for intimidation

Answer

Published: 2025-06-02

Author : ChanWoo JEONG

It appears that you are currently in a situation where you are repeatedly receiving intimidating remarks.

Since you actually feel a threat to your personal safety, an active response is necessary.

The police provide personal protection, through certain screening and procedures, to persons who are at risk of harm to their life or body.

Accordingly, victims who, like you, are concerned about retaliation due to a criminal complaint for intimidation can request personal protection.

If you have already reported to the police and the case has been received, you can consult with the officer in charge of the case and then complete a ‘personal protection application.’

On the other hand, if there is no ongoing case, you can visit a nearby police station's civil affairs office, a local police station, or a police substation, complete the application, and file it.

Based on the submitted application, the department in charge of the case or the personal protection screening committee conducts a review.

Through this, whether to provide personal protection is decided, and the police assess the victim's level of danger and can take the following protective measures

∙ Strengthened patrols around the residence
∙ Personal escort protection
∙ Support for temporary shelter if necessary
∙ Connection to a specialized protection facility

In addition to such institutional protection, you can consider utilizing a security service.

In particular, if there is concern that the intimidator may actually act, or if they are aware of the victim's movements, requesting personal protection from a professional bodyguard when filing a criminal complaint for intimidation can also be a good approach.