By Staff
A Florida man was arrested on a stalking charge after authorities say a consensual threesome with a couple was followed by a pattern of unwanted contact that allegedly included persistent messages, late-night appearances and attempts to confront the pair after they cut off communication.
Marcus Vale, 32, was taken into custody after the couple reported that his behavior had escalated to the point that they feared the encounters would continue, according to police.
Investigators said the three adults initially met socially and later agreed to a consensual sexual encounter. The couple told authorities there were no apparent problems that night, but Vale allegedly became increasingly persistent in the days that followed.
Police said Vale began sending messages to both members of the couple, asking to see them again and attempting to arrange another encounter. The couple eventually told him they were not interested and asked him to stop contacting them.
Authorities allege he did not stop.
After his number was blocked, Vale allegedly began using other phone numbers and social media accounts to reach the pair. Some messages were sent repeatedly within short periods of time, investigators said.
The couple told police they initially tried to ignore the communication in hopes it would end.
Instead, investigators said Vale allegedly began appearing in places where he knew the couple would be.
In one incident, the couple reported finding him outside a business they regularly visited. Another alleged encounter occurred in a parking lot, where Vale approached their vehicle and attempted to speak with them despite being told to stay away.
The couple later reported seeing him near their residence.
Police said one of the most concerning incidents occurred when Vale allegedly arrived at the home late at night and repeatedly knocked on the door. The couple did not open the door and again told him to leave them alone.
Investigators said Vale eventually left, but a vehicle matching the description of his car was allegedly spotted near the residence on other occasions.
The couple began keeping records of the unwanted contact, including screenshots, call logs and dates when they said Vale appeared unexpectedly.
They eventually brought the information to police.
Investigators reviewed the documentation and interviewed both members of the couple before taking Vale into custody on a stalking charge.
Florida law generally defines stalking as willfully, maliciously and repeatedly following, harassing or cyberstalking another person. The circumstances surrounding an alleged pattern of conduct can affect the severity of the charge.
Vale is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
