L.A. Judge Issues Restraining Order Against Man Accused of Stalking Sabrina Carpenter
A Los Angeles County court has issued a restraining order against 31-year-old William Applegate, prohibiting him from approaching within 100 yards of singer and actress Sabrina Carpenter's Hollywood Hills residence. The order also covers Carpenter's sister and her sister's partner, who share the home. Applegate is additionally barred from contacting Carpenter and from possessing firearms.
"His behavior reflects the hallmarks of a fixated, obsessional individual." — Detective Peter Doomanis, LAPD
Timeline of Events
According to court documents, the incidents began as early as April 20, 2024, when Applegate started parking in Carpenter's neighborhood, reportedly choosing spots progressively closer to her residence.
On May 23, Ring camera footage captured a man—identified as Applegate—approaching Carpenter's front door and attempting to force it open. A security guard confronted Applegate, who reportedly stated that Carpenter was expecting him. Carpenter's petition described this claim as false. Security removed Applegate, and law enforcement arrested him on suspicion of misdemeanor trespassing.
Two days later, on May 25, Applegate returned to the neighborhood.
Legal Proceedings
Carpenter filed a civil harassment restraining order on May 29. In a signed declaration, she stated that Applegate's conduct caused her "severe and ongoing emotional distress" and that she feared what he might do without court intervention.
At a subsequent hearing, Applegate claimed that he and Carpenter were part of a classified military program requiring them to be together for national security. Applegate agreed to stay away if Carpenter told him directly, but the judge ordered him to obey the court order.
Detective Peter Doomanis of the Los Angeles Police Department stated that Applegate's behavior "reflects the hallmarks of a fixated, obsessional individual" and is consistent with patterns of stalking behavior that pose a serious and escalating risk to victim safety.
A follow-up court hearing is scheduled for June 17. A separate criminal court hearing regarding the trespassing arrest is scheduled for June 18.
Background
Sabrina Carpenter, 27, is a singer and actress. According to her petition, she has never met or communicated with Applegate. She shares her Hollywood Hills home with her sister and her sister's partner.