A Winter Garden police sergeant is facing a stalking charge after being arrested Tuesday, and he is now off the streets and on paid leave while the case plays out, according to city officials.
Authorities say Sgt. Bryan Stubbs was taken into custody by the Apopka Police Department. Winter Garden leaders have placed him on administrative leave with pay and say they plan to fully cooperate with Apopka’s investigation.
What Officials Released
According to WESH, Apopka detectives arrested Stubbs, though investigators have not publicly released details about the alleged victim or the specific incidents behind the stalking charge.
WESH also reports that Winter Garden police put Stubbs on administrative leave pending the outcome of the criminal investigation.
Who Is Sgt. Bryan Stubbs?
The City of Winter Garden staff directory lists Stubbs as a sergeant assigned to the night shift with the Winter Garden Police Department. The listing confirms his rank and provides city contact information for the department.
Investigation and Department Response
In a statement to WESH, Police Chief Steve Graham said the Winter Garden Police Department will cooperate with the Apopka Police Department as it investigates the allegation against Stubbs.
Officials have not yet released charging documents or announced a court date in the case.
Legal Context
Under Florida law, stalking is defined as willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly following, harassing, or cyberstalking another person, and it is generally treated as a first‑degree misdemeanor. In certain situations, aggravated stalking can be charged as a third‑degree felony.
That framework is set out in Florida Senate records for Florida Statutes §784.048, which also outlines potential penalties and civil remedies available to victims.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether Stubbs has entered a plea, appeared in court, or become the subject of an internal administrative review. The case remains a developing story as investigators and prosecutors evaluate the allegations.
