SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio police have arrested a man accused of stalking a woman for the past year who authorities say feared for her life.
According to police, the suspect was caught on the victim’s security camera presenting gifts in the form of jewelry and even trying to break into the house.
“It’s menacing, it’s threatening,” said Patricia Castillo, executive director of the P.E.A.C.E Initiative. “Nobody should walk in fear of their surroundings no matter where they are.”
Roman Phillip Slobodnik, 22, faces a stalking charge for his alleged actions authorities say began in May 2023.
Arresting documents state the suspect was seen on the female victim’s door bell video knocking on the front door on at least two different occasions. In one of the instances, authorities say Slobodnik presented the camera with a ring. The affidavit says the victim told authorities she doesn’t know Slobodnik.
Castillo says gift-giving is a common attempt by stalkers to manipulate their victims.
“It’s an enticement. They feel like if I buy them things, they’ll like me, they’ll accept me, they’ll be willing to talk to me,” Castillo said.
On Apr. 14, 2024, Slobodnik returned, knocking on the front door once again before leaving and parking down the street to keep tabs on the victim’s home. The arrest affidavit says the suspect was seen on security video pacing back and forth in the victim’s yard, then asking her to come outside.
Officials say the suspect left then came back and was observed attempting to break into the victim’s home.
One-in-four women and one-in-13 men have reported being victims of stalking in their lifetime, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
Castillo, who advocates for people impacted by domestic violence, emphasized the importance for everyone to be vigilant in suspected cases of stalking.
“You have to document every single time these episodes are occurring and use as much detail as you possibly can and keep reporting it to police on a continuous basis.”
As for Slobodnik, he remains locked up on a $25,000 bond.