Man Arrested After Neighbor Witnesses False Imprisonment and Domestic Battery

William Paul Trotter, 50, was arrested early Sunday morning and charged with false imprisonment and domestic battery.

During an argument Saturday evening, the victim attempted to leave the residence, and Trotter reportedly blocked the way out. The victim tried to yell for help from a neighbor but didn’t want to try pushing past Trotter. 

45 minutes later, Trotter went to get a drink from the kitchen, and the victim was able to get out of the house.

Trotter followed the victim outside and started grabbing her, causing her to yell for help. A neighbor heard her and went outside to find the victim trying to get away from Trotter.

The neighbor witnessed Trotter grab the victim from behind and pin her arms to her side. As the victim pulled away, Trotter lost his balance and almost fell, giving the victim the opportunity to get away.

Trotter told police he “never prevented the victim from leaving.”

Gainesville Police Department Officer Katie Boyett reported that Trotter “did admit to grabbing and holding the victim while [she] was shouting for help.”

Trotter’s bond is set at $60,000.

Trotter has five adjudications for violent crimes.