On Tuesday, Phillip Thomas was sentenced to 15 years in jail for the attempted kidnapping of WWE star Sonya Deville. Fox 13 is reporting on the news of Thomas’ sentencing. The incident, which occurred in August 2020, involved Thomas driving from South Carolina to Florida with the intention of kidnapping Deville. Following repeated threatening text messages on social media, Thomas came equipped with a knife, zip ties, and duct tape.
Prosecutors argued that Thomas had been stalking Deville and that the kidnapping attempt was premeditated. Deville's home security system was triggered, and surveillance footage shows her checking on a sliding door before Thomas enters the house, looking for her. Fortunately, Deville managed to flee with her fellow WWE star Mandy Rose in a car.
Judge Barbara Twine-Thomas accepted a plea agreement in which Thomas pleaded guilty to attempted kidnapping, aggravated stalking, and armed burglary. In addition to 15 years in jail, Thomas was also sentenced to 15 years of probation.
This case highlights the very real danger that celebrities, particularly female celebrities, can face from obsessed fans. Deville was fortunate to escape unharmed, but the situation could have ended very differently. It also underscores the importance of security measures for those in the public eye.
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