Suspected stalker who claims Shakira is wife arrested outside her home
Valtier, from El Paso, Texas, showed up to the singer’s home just five days later at 12.45am in a taxi before he was arrested.
A suspected stalker who claims Shakira is his wife has been arrested outside her home in Miami after allegedly sending her gifts of wine, chocolate, and toys through the mail.
Daniel John Valtier, a 56-year-old from El Paso, Texas, was taken into custody on Monday and charged with one count of stalking, according to an arrest report.
Valtier allegedly shared multiple posts on social media about Shakira, which were handed to authorities by her security team on January 3.
Ignoring their warnings to stop sending gifts and posting about her online, Valtier’s behavior took a dangerous turn when he boasted on Instagram about visiting Shakira’s home in Miami. He also shared a photo of a motel business card in Florida.
In response to this alarming post, Shakira’s security team immediately called the authorities. Valtier arrived at the singer’s home at 12:45 am in a taxi, and he was swiftly apprehended.
While in court on Tuesday, Valtier defiantly claimed that an order to stay away from Shakira would not work as she is his wife. However, the judge firmly dismissed this delusion, expressing concerns about Valtier’s mental state.
Prosecutors asked for Valtier to be held on a bond of $50,000 due to the seriousness of the charges. The judge, concerned for the safety of Shakira and the public, doubled the bond to $100,000.
Valtier’s disturbing social media posts revealed his misguided belief that he and Shakira were in a relationship. He even discussed marrying the singer and starting a business together, while making inappropriate remarks about her children.
Valtier has a criminal history dating back to 1988, with previous arrests for charges including drugs, aggravated assault, driving while intoxicated, and public intoxication.
This arrest is not the first for Valtier. According to jail records, he was last arrested in El Paso in 2019 for criminal trespass.
Stalking is a serious crime that poses grave threats to individuals’ safety and well-being. While celebrities like Shakira may face particular challenges due to their public profile, it is important to remember that no one should have to endure the fear and harassment of a stalker.
As the legal proceedings unfold, it is crucial to respect Shakira’s privacy and support her in achieving a sense of security once again.