Sabrina Carpenter gets 5-year restraining order against stalker
What's the story
Pop star Sabrina Carpenter has been granted a five-year restraining order against a man who allegedly stalked her. The accused, William Applegate, testified in court that he was part of a "classified military government program" with Carpenter. He claimed his mission involved "the second coming of Christ" and that he needed to contact Carpenter to save the world.
Court proceedings
Applegate has to stay atleast 100 yards away from Carpenter
During the court hearing, Applegate, 31, said he needed to be with Carpenter, 27, as soon as possible. He was ordered to stay at least 100 yards away from her until June 17, 2031. The order also prohibits him from contacting Carpenter or possessing firearms or ammunition. In a signed declaration obtained by Rolling Stone, Carpenter said she never met Applegate and didn't invite him to her home.
Stalking allegations
Applegate tried contacting singer many times
Carpenter's lawyer, Blair Berk, requested the five-year restraining order after Applegate admitted on social media and in court declarations that he visited Carpenter's private homes over a dozen times. The singer detailed an incident in her May 29 emergency temporary restraining order filing where Applegate "seriously alarmed and harassed" her by breaking into her neighbor's property and trying to open her front door while she was inside.
Court order
Judge to Applegate: 'I expect you to obey the order'
Los Angeles County Judge David I. Wasserman warned Applegate, "I understand it's your belief that in order to save the world you and [Carpenter] need to be together." "I understand that is your belief. [But] this court has issued its order. And I expect you to obey the order, not what you think the military commands of you."
Ongoing case
Applegate yet to be charged
Applegate, who was arrested at Carpenter's home in May for refusing to leave, is set for a criminal court hearing on Thursday. In a counter-petition, he claimed Carpenter had tried to communicate with him by looking directly at him while singing during her Coachella set in April. According to AP News, criminal charges don't seem to have been filed against Applegate yet, but a criminal investigation is underway.