Why did Michael Townley change his last name?

Could you please elaborate on the reason behind Michael Townley's decision to alter his surname? Was it a personal choice, or was there a specific event or circumstance that prompted this change? Understanding the motivation behind such a significant change can provide valuable insight into an individual's life and the challenges they may have faced. It would be interesting to know if there were any external factors, such as safety concerns or legal issues, that influenced his decision.