A man accused of stalking and harassing UConn basketball star Paige Bueckers has pleaded guilty to a stalking charge. The 40-year-old man, who had expressed intentions of marrying Bueckers on social media, received a one-year suspended sentence and three years' probation.
The individual, whose last known addresses were in Grants Pass, Oregon, and Ritzville, Washington, was arrested in August near Bradley International Airport in Hartford. He was found in possession of an engagement ring and lingerie at the time of his arrest.
Initially facing charges of stalking, breach of peace, and harassment, the man ultimately pleaded guilty to a single count of second-degree stalking. The arrest was made after a state trooper discovered an outstanding warrant against him in Josephine County, Oregon, related to setting a home on fire with occupants inside.
Authorities reported that the man had been posting photos, videos, and comments about Bueckers on various social media platforms, including TikTok. He had also been sending emails to UConn officials since June, expressing his desire to marry the basketball star.
While the initial postings and emails did not lead to criminal charges, the content became increasingly concerning over time, prompting law enforcement intervention. The man's behavior raised alarms due to the escalating nature of his communications and his physical proximity to the UConn campus.
