Have you sought a restraining order against this person? If not, why not?
Have you notified the police of any repeatedly harassing calls or e-mails? If not, why not?
Actually, in California, this could be considered battery - a misdemeanor criminal offense.Using the tips of my fingers, I gently pushed him away to created some distance. This was a defensive move.
And potentially, criminal.While the contact was brief, gentle and caused no physical harm nor any damage to the camera (other than a finger on the lens), it was contact.
All the more reason to seek a restraining order. It won't stop him from posting to public boards, but it could stop him from e-mailing you or calling.I am concerned as now this individual has sent emails threatening unspecific legal action, citing physical assault and damage of property. The individual has also posted such claims on public newsgroups. It is obvious that he intends to embellish the incident and use it to tarnish my name and/or get a settlement of some sort should the matter become a civil one.
Just when will that be? When you are charged with a crime?Please do not insult my intelligence by telling me to get a lawyer. I will when the time is appropriate.
The actions might be annoying and harassing, but they are not necessarily threatening. Actions this person could take could include reporting your attack to the police ... it wouldn't go very far, but it is technically a crime.Until that time I am looking to get some opinions on what the possibilities are as far as courses of action this individual might take and what I should do to protect myself, ie: I consider this individual's actions as threatening in nature.
But ... YOU did the assaulting! When did this person assault you?Should I file an assault complaint with the authorities?
You MIGHT have a case for stalking or harassing electronic communication, so it might behoove you to speak to the police and provide them with proof of this ongoing contact and why it makes you fearful.
That could make any prosecution very difficult ... especially if the e-mails and such were sent to you while you were outside the jurisdiction as such would not be a crime here.I am not a US resident, but travel to the US frequently.
- Carl

