FIREFIGHTER’S JEALOUSY LEADS TO BIZARRE TAMPONS INCIDENT
In a strange and unsettling incident that highlights the sometimes destructive nature of post-relationship jealousy, a Florida firefighter has found herself in legal trouble after an unusual act of vandalism. Gabrielle Franze, a 28-year-old member of the Orange County Fire Rescue, allegedly scattered approximately 75 red-stained tampons across the yard of a home where her ex-boyfriend now lives with his new girlfriend. This peculiar case has raised eyebrows not just for the bizarre nature of the vandalism but also because it involves a public servant whose profession is built on a foundation of trust, integrity, and community service.
According to court documents, the incident occurred around 10 p.m. on September 29 when Franze allegedly drove to her ex-boyfriend’s home in Deland, Florida. Surveillance footage captured a pickup truck matching Franze’s vehicle slowly approaching the property before stopping when traffic subsided. A woman was then seen tossing what would later be identified as tampons “stained red as if they were possibly used” onto the lawn. The homeowners discovered the disturbing display the following morning and immediately reported the vandalism to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. The couple was able to identify Franze’s truck due to its distinctive covering over dog kennels stored in the back, and police confirmed her license plate had been recorded in the area at the time of the incident.
When confronted by authorities, Franze initially denied knowledge of her ex-boyfriend’s current residence, but when presented with evidence, she reportedly admitted to her involvement while attempting to shift some responsibility. According to the affidavit, she claimed the scheme “was not her idea” but rather suggested by her mother and aunt who were visiting. The three allegedly purchased the tampons and painted them red to create the appearance of use, crafting a prank that police described as having the “sole purpose to harass” with no “legitimate purpose.” This planning element adds a layer of premeditation that authorities found particularly concerning, suggesting this wasn’t merely an impulsive act but one calculated to cause distress.
The aftermath has been swift and multifaceted. Professionally, Franze, who has served with the fire department since 2019, has been placed on paid administrative leave pending an internal investigation by her employer. Legally, she was arrested and pleaded not guilty to two counts of misdemeanor stalking during a court appearance on Friday, after which she posted bond and was released. Her attorney is seeking to have the complaint dismissed, arguing insufficient evidence connects her to the crime in the charging affidavit. Meanwhile, the new girlfriend, who identified herself on social media as Morgan Rhodes, publicly criticized Franze’s behavior, stating that “firefighters are supposed to stand for honor and integrity,” and that Franze’s actions have ruined “a badge and reputation.”
This case touches on several deeply human themes that resonate beyond its unusual details. At its core, it illustrates how the pain of romantic rejection and replacement can sometimes manifest in destructive ways. The alleged perpetrator is a firefighter—someone trained to rescue and protect—yet in this moment seemingly acted from a place of hurt and jealousy. According to the police report, the couple believed Franze carried out the act because “she was unhappy” about her former partner moving on. This suggests the powerful and sometimes overwhelming emotions that can accompany the end of a relationship, especially when confronted with evidence that an ex-partner has found happiness with someone new.
The incident also highlights the intersection between private emotions and public responsibility, particularly for those in positions of community trust. While relationship breakups and the accompanying emotions are universal experiences, the expectations for how public servants manage those emotions—especially when on duty—are different. The fire department’s decision to place Franze on administrative leave reflects this understanding that personal conduct, even off-duty, can impact public trust in essential services. As this case proceeds through legal channels, it serves as a reminder of how quickly a momentary lapse in judgment can jeopardize a career built over years and potentially alter the trajectory of a life. For all involved—Franze, her ex-boyfriend, and his new partner—this unusual incident has created ripples that extend far beyond a yard full of tampered tampons, touching on issues of professionalism, emotional regulation, and the sometimes messy aftermath of human relationships.
