Supermodel stalker found guilty

NEW YORK - A Georgia man has been found guilty of misdemeanor stalking one day after supermodel-turned-TV host Tyra Banks delivered dramatic testimony about fearing for her safety. Despite a conviction, the judge indicated he would spare Brady Green any time behind bars. He'll be formally sentenced on June 18.

Tyra Banks

Green was arrested in March, telling police he "had a thing together" with Banks. Prosecutors said he appeared twice at the Manhattan studio where her show is filmed and sent more than a dozen roses with a note that said, "When I see you, I love you. Brady Green." One of Banks' employees claimed Green threatened to slit his throat.

Green, who took the stand during the trial, said there was nothing romantic about his feelings for Banks. His defense attorney claimed Green was just an overzealous fan and answered Banks' Web site invitation for fans to reach out to her.

While the most publicized cases of stalking involve celebrities, statistics show most victims are ex-wives and girlfriends. In a recent Justice Department study, 3.4 million people were subjected to stalking - mostly women. The report also states that 11 percent, about 374,000 people, had been stalked for five or more years. And many victims do not tell the police about being stalked because they felt it was a personal matter.

Most states have passed laws after the stalking and murder of actress Rebecca Schaeffer in 1989. In Session, then Court TV, covered the trial. A first offense is usually deemed a misdemeanor and in 34 states, stalking is a felony, but only after a second offense.

Some groups believe more needs to be done. The National Center for Victims of Crime has recommended "improved and greater responses to victims, stronger legislation and greater public awareness about the crime."

-Bob Regan, In Session senior executive producer