Deputies arrested Gainesville man Thursday after he was found hiding inside a shed on a rural property in violation of an active ex parte order.
On January 8, 2026, deputies responded to a residence after the victim reported that Robert “Reece” Richie was on his property despite the protection order and prior warnings to stay away. When deputies arrived, Richie was not visible outside, but they heard quiet voices coming from the area of the home. The victim confirmed Richie was somewhere on the property.
Deputies conducted a perimeter search and checked an outbuilding the victim identified as his furnace shed. Inside, Deputy Ryan located Richie sitting on the floor. Richie showed his hands when ordered but repeatedly refused to exit the shed. When instructed again, Richie grabbed a bottle of vodka and began drinking. Deputies removed the bottle, attempted to escort him out, and Richie braced himself against the door frame, actively resisting. Deputies brought him to the ground and placed him in handcuffs. A search incident to arrest revealed no weapons.
After Richie was secured in the patrol vehicle, the victim confirmed that Richie had threatened to kill him while yelling from outside the property. He also reported that Richie had returned the previous night, January 7, displaying similar behavior—yelling, threatening him, and violating the ex parte order. The victim stated he wished to pursue charges for trespassing, harassment, stalking, and violation of the protection order.
Richie is charged with 1st degree stalking, 1st degree harassment, and violation of a protection order. He is being held without bond.
A charge is merely an accusation; the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
