Gabrielle Franze, a firefighter with Orange County Fire Rescue, has been placed on paid leave following her arrest on Friday by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. She faces misdemeanor stalking charges related to an unusual incident involving her ex-partner.
The charges stem from allegations that Franze threw over 100 tampons into her ex’s yard. According to the police report, security footage and license plate data were crucial in identifying Franze’s involvement in the act.
Franze initially denied being at the scene but later admitted her presence, claiming the actions were not her idea. Security footage showed a dark pickup truck similar to her vehicle, with a person seen tossing the tampons into the yard. The tampons were reportedly used and stained red, ABC affiliate WFTV reports.
Further investigation revealed that Franze’s vehicle was captured on license plate readers near the scene before the incident took place. Additionally, the footage showed someone sitting in the bed of the truck, which matched Franze’s vehicle.
Franze is scheduled for her first court appearance on Friday, where the charges will be formally presented. The outcome of the pre-determination hearing will have a significant impact on her future with Orange County Fire Rescue.
Franze, a decorated firefighter who has been with the department since November 2019, now faces the potential consequences of her actions outside of her professional role. The department has yet to comment on the investigation or the specifics of her leave.