WWE’s Sonya Deville issues statement on attempted kidnapper being sentenced
Sonya Deville is feeling grateful for the support she has received since undergoing a harrowing home invasion and attempted kidnapping three years ago.
Phillip Thomas was sentenced to 15 years in prison earlier this week as part of a plea agreement with Florida prosecutors. He pleaded guilty to charges of attempted kidnapping, aggravated stalking, and armed burglary in regard to the home invasion of Deville’s residence in August 2020.
Deville released the following statement on Wednesday:
Thank you to everyone who has reached out today. After almost 3 years we finally got some closure last week. I am happy and healthy and have amazing people by my side. To say it’s over feels odd but I am beyond grateful for the support and help I received over the past 3 years from HCSO, Tampa PD, to everyone in the courts, attorneys, friends, security and so so many more. I have a lot to say pertaining to this situation which I feel can help a lot of people in similar situations now that the legalities are over. BUT for now thank you
Deville took time off from WWE following SummerSlam that year after losing a “Loser Leaves WWE” match to Mandy Rose. She would return the following year in an on-screen authority role.
Deville began carrying a firearm following the attempted kidnapping. She was arrested on February 19, 2023, after police discovered the weapon in her vehicle. Deville has a permit for the gun in Florida but not in New Jersey. She was charged with one count of unlawful weapon possession — handgun without permit but last was known she was in the process of having the charges thrown out.
