Sonya Deville Calls for Change in Stalking Laws After Terrifying 2020 Incident

Sonya Deville faced a terrifying situation in 2020 when a man named Philip Thomas II, who had been stalking her online, broke into her home in August and attempted to kidnap her. Thomas was arrested and faced several charges, including aggravated stalking, armed burglary, attempted armed kidnapping, and criminal mischief. A protective order was also issued to keep him away from Deville, and she has now made it clear she wants a change in stalking laws.

During an appearance on Talking with Natasha, Sonya reflected on the traumatic experience. She stated that while it was an unfortunate situation, it helped her realize how much could be done to improve laws and regulations around stalking. She explained that she was “fortunate” in a way because the man did break into her house, had weapons, and showed intent to harm, leading to his long sentence.

However, she pointed out that many stalking victims face years of terror without the perpetrator crossing a certain line, which prevents legal action. Sonya stated that the fear of living with that uncertainty is even more terrifying, and she believes changes to stalking laws could help protect victims.

Deville also revealed how she has worked hard to ensure her safety and the safety of her family. While it took time, she now feels secure and comfortable with her lifestyle and surroundings.

“Yeah, it was an unfortunate incident that I don’t wish upon anybody. I think there’s a lot that can be done to change some laws and regulations around stalking. Stalking victims, I think it’s really hard sometimes when I always say and this is gonna sound weird but I was very fortunate the man did break into my house, did have weapons, did show intent to harm and so he’s locked up and he’s in jail for a long time.

That’s like a best case scenario in a sense because a lot of people deal with stalking for years and years and if the person doesn’t cross that one boundary then you can’t put them behind bars or you can’t get a restraining order and I think that is more terrifying than anything. Just living with that over your head. That’s celebrities and non-celebrities, people dealing with that. So, yeah, I think there’s a lot that could be changed in the future.”

As previously reported, Judge Barbara Twine-Thomas handed a 15-year sentence to Philip Thomas II back in 2023, followed by 15 years of probation. Nevertheless, stalking is still a big problem, and Sonya Deville’s story shows why laws need to change. It’s important to protect victims before things get too dangerous, so people can get the help and safety they need.

Do you agree that stalking laws should be stricter to protect victims before a crime escalates? What changes do you think should be made? Share your thoughts in the comments below!