In a highly unusual and widely shared incident out of Central Florida, an Orange County firefighter has been arrested and charged with misdemeanor stalking after authorities say she dumped dozens of tampons onto the lawn of her ex-boyfriend’s home.
According to law enforcement reports, Gabrielle Franze, 28, a firefighter with Orange County Fire Rescue, was taken into custody in late September following an investigation by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident reportedly occurred in the Deltona area the night of Sept. 29, 2025, when the homeowner and his girlfriend discovered an assortment of tampons scattered across their front yard the following morning. Security cameras from the residence captured a dark-colored pickup truck slowly circling the property. A person sitting in the truck’s bed then hopped out and began tossing tampons throughout the yard, according to the probable cause affidavit.
Deputies later matched the truck’s registration to Franze and traced the activity back to her. Investigators say surveillance footage and license plate reader data were key pieces of evidence in the case.
Stalking Charges and Investigation
Franze was arrested on two counts of misdemeanor stalking, charges that stem from alleged conduct that authorities said “served no legitimate purpose” and appeared intended to harass the victims.
Police allege Franze was upset that her former partner had begun dating someone new, though details about the status of their relationship and what prompted the reported conduct have not been publicly disclosed beyond the court affidavit.
Bond was posted shortly after her arrest, and she has since been placed on paid administrative leave from her duties with Orange County Fire Rescue as the department continues to review the matter.
The unusual nature of the case — involving dozens of red-stained tampons — drew widespread media attention and public commentary. While law enforcement focused on the potential harassment and stalking components of the alleged act, social media discussions around the story ranged from critical to incredulous.
As of the latest reports, Franze remains charged with stalking offenses, and further court proceedings are expected. The case has raised questions about personal conduct off duty and how law enforcement navigates incidents involving former partners and harassment allegations.
Video Credit: LawandCrime