KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — A Pennsylvania man is now facing federal charges after he was arrested in Knoxville on Valentine’s Day.
Michael Hoffpowier, 46, of Middlebury, Pennsylvania, was arrested by Knox County deputies on Feb. 14. He was charged with stalking and possession of a silencer.
According to a U.S. Justice Department release, Hoffpowier tracked the alleged victim from Pennsylvania, to Texas, and finally to Knoxville over the course of a few months.
Police pursuing ‘strong leads’ after fatal shooting in East Knoxville
The victim told law enforcement on Feb. 12 that Hoffpowier attempted to contact them through their employer by using a false name but using his actual phone number. The victim’s employer contacted Hoffpowier and cancelled his appointment. Hoffpowier responded by saying, “I’ll see you at 9:00.”
The employer contacted the police. Witnesses observed the suspect drive around the Knox County business on Feb. 14. He was located by Knox County deputies minutes later.