by DeLand, FL – A Florida firefighter is facing serious backlash after allegedly dumping 75 red-stained tampons in her ex-boyfriend’s front yard, an act reportedly driven by jealousy over his new relationship.
Gabrielle Franze, a firefighter with Orange County Fire Rescue, was arrested on two counts of misdemeanor stalking following the midnight incident that occurred on September 29 at a home in DeLand, Volusia County. The complaint detailed the disturbing harassment that left the homeowner and his new girlfriend shocked and disturbed.
Unsettling Harassment Caught on Video
The new girlfriend of Franze’s ex flagged down deputies after they discovered the tampons dumped in their yard on the morning of September 30. The tampons were described as “stained red as if they were possibly used.” Surveillance footage revealed a dark-colored pickup truck slowly circling the property before a woman hopped out of the truck bed and dumped the tampons on the lawn.
The couple suspected Franze was behind the act, citing her public social media posts expressing anger about their relationship and her private conversations disparaging the pair.
Evidence and Investigation
- Franze owns a pickup truck matching the one seen on the video.
- Her vehicle carries dog kennels, similar to those obscured from view during the dump.
- License plate readers confirmed her truck was in the area at the relevant time.
When confronted by authorities, Gabrielle Franze initially denied any knowledge of her ex’s residence but later claimed responsibility was shared with her mother and aunt, who had visited from out of state. She allegedly stated they purchased tampons and painted them red to create the illusion of use before dumping them at the victim’s home.
Legal and Professional Repercussions
The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office concluded that the act was harassing in nature with the “sole purpose to harass” the victims, serving no legitimate purpose. Following the arrest, Franze was transported to the Volusia County Branch Jail but has since bonded out.
Her attorney has filed a motion to dismiss the charges, arguing insufficient evidence to prove a crime occurred. Meanwhile, Orange County Fire Rescue has placed Franze on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of their internal investigation.
Community and Expert Perspectives
“This behavior is not only disturbing but reflects poorly on public servants expected to uphold community trust,” said a legal expert reviewing the case.
The incident sheds light on the complexities of stalking laws and harassment in the digital and real world, raising questions about boundaries and appropriate consequences.
More details on this case can be found on the original report at Law&Crime.
What Comes Next?
The legal proceedings against Gabrielle Franze will clarify the enforcement of stalking-related offenses in emotional disputes. Meanwhile, Orange County Fire Rescue’s investigation may impact her career and set a precedent for professional conduct standards within emergency services.
Key Facts to Remember:
- Incident occurred on the night of September 29, 2023.
- Franze accused of two counts of misdemeanor stalking.
- Video evidence and license plates linked her vehicle to the scene.
- Franze has been placed on paid leave during ongoing investigations.
What do you think about this unusual case of harassment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
