Since the internet has become one of the most popular ways to meet new people, it’s not unusual for two strangers to chat for months or even years without ever coming face to face. But if you’re like this man from South Carolina, the relationship can be a little one-sided.
Phillip A. Thomas II, 24, was arrested in Lutz, Florida after he entered a home in a subdivision. According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Thomas parked his car at a nearby church on Sunday evening and approached the residence while the homeowner was there, cut a hole in the screen of the patio door, and waited there for several hours while watching and listening through the windows.
Shortly after the homeowner went to bed, Thomas then forced his way into a sliding glass door which activated the home alarm system. The homeowner was alerted and fled the home along with a guest and called the authorities.
Officers arrived to find Thomas still inside the home. He was in possession of a knife, zip ties, duct tape, and mace. The investigation shows he planned on taking the homeowner hostage.
So why did Thomas go through all this for someone he had never met? He had been stalking the homeowner who happened to be Daria Berebato better known as WWE wrestler Sonya Deville. Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister concluded that Thomas had become obsessed with Berebato.
“Our deputies are unveiling the suspect’s disturbing obsession with this homeowner who he had never met but stalked on social media for years,” said the Sheriff. “It’s frightening to think of all the ways this incident could have played out.”
Authorities discovered Thomas had been planning out the attack for eight months. He was charged with aggravated stalking, armed burglary of a dwelling, attempted armed kidnapping, and criminal mischief.