LAKE CITY, Fla. – Lake City police officers say they rescued two abducted children and arrested a suspect Monday evening after a domestic violence incident that began inside a police department lobby.
Officers responded just before 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 10 to a disturbance at the Lake City Police Department.
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Victim fled into lobby for help
Investigators determined a woman fled into the police department lobby seeking help after a physical altercation with her boyfriend, Branch Stamper. Police say surveillance video showed Stamper pursuing the victim into the lobby, knocking her to the floor, placing his arms around her neck, pulling her backward and taking her cell phone.
Stamper then entered the victim’s black Kia Seltos and left the parking lot with her two children still inside the vehicle. according to police. Stamper has no biological or legal relationship with either child.
Technology helped officers locate vehicle
Officers immediately began searching for the vehicle. They say information obtained through the FLOCK license plate reader network and location data from the victim’s cell phone helped officers locate the vehicle near NE Lake Drive.
Officers say they found Stamper with the vehicle and both children.
The children were safely reunited with their mother. The Department of Children and Families was notified and opened an investigation.
Investigators say the woman sustained visible injuries but declined medical treatment. Officers provided her with information about available services and the injunction process.
Stamper was booked into the Columbia County Detention Facility.
Chief: ‘A domestic violence incident can escalate quickly’
“This case shows how quickly a domestic violence incident can escalate and place multiple lives at risk,” Chief Gerald Butler said.
“Our officers acted quickly, used the available technology to locate the vehicle, and safely reunited these children with their mother. We encourage anyone experiencing domestic violence to seek help before the situation becomes more dangerous.”
How to report information
Anyone with information regarding a crime is encouraged to contact the Lake City Police Department at (386) 752-4343. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the LCPD Tips line at (386) 719-2068 or Crime Stoppers of Columbia County at (386) 754-7099.
Domestic Violence Resources
If you or someone you know is or has been a victim of domestic violence or abuse, there are resources available:
- The Florida Domestic Violence Hotline, which will direct you to the nearest shelter, is 1-800-500-1119
- The National Domestic Violence Hotline is open 24 hours a day. The number is 1-800-799-SAFE
- The Micah’s Place (Nassau County) Domestic Violence Help Hotline is 904-225-9979
- The Hubbard House in Jacksonville can be reached by dialing 904-354-3114
- The Betty Griffin Center in St. Johns County can be reached at 904-824-1555