The number of women infected with HIV by a South Sound man who is accused of knowingly exposing them to the virus has tripled, KIRO 7 Eyewitness News reported.

Anthony Whitfield, 31, faces one count of first-degree assault with sexual motivation for each of 12 women who were exposed to the virus through unprotected sex with him, Pierce County prosecutors said.

Prosecutors also said he tried to persuade one woman to change her story about the charges against him, and he faces charges of tampering with a witness.

Whitfield was initially charged with exposing four women to the deadly disease, but Pierce County health officials said anyone who had sexual relations with him since 1992 to contact police and be tested for HIV.

In the days after his arrested, authorities received more than 100 calls.