Volusia County Sheriff’s Office announced a warrant for the arrest of 27‑year‑old Joseph Woodard, who is wanted on charges of aggravated stalking involving a juvenile. Investigators say Woodard sent letters and gifts to the 16‑year‑old girl under the name of his cellmate in an effort to circumvent a court‑ordered no‑contact directive.
Background of the incident
According to the sheriff’s office, the girl first met Woodard through the social media platform Snapchat. She reported that Woodard appeared at her home north of DeLand on multiple occasions without invitation. On one occasion, the girl was awakened by a rattling window and saw Woodard standing outside. When she opened the door to call for help, he placed his foot in the doorway but she was able to close it.
Woodard then fired several rounds from a 9 mm handgun into the ground outside the residence before fleeing the scene in a red Toyota hatchback. The girl was not injured.
Arrest and subsequent actions
Woodard was later detained by deputies just north of the intersection of State Road 11 and State Road 40. Although he resisted, deputies were able to take him into custody. A search of the vehicle uncovered seven spent shell casings, two 9 mm handguns, approximately 350 rounds of 9 mm ammunition, and six magazines for Glock pistols. An additional spent shell casing was recovered from the original incident location.
Woodard had previously been held for nearly three weeks and was released on bond on August 19. He is now charged with armed trespassing, discharging a firearm in public, discharging a firearm from a vehicle, cyberstalking, and resisting an officer without violence.
Current status
The warrant remains active, and Woodward’s whereabouts are unknown. Law enforcement is urging anyone with information to contact 911 immediately.
This case underscores the importance of enforcing no‑contact orders and the risks posed when individuals disregard court directives, especially when firearms are involved. The sheriff’s office continues to investigate and will provide updates as the situation develops.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
