Man Arrested for False Imprisonment and Domestic Battery Three Years After Charges Were Filed

On March 16, 2021, Shawn Michael Keith Gatlin, 30, was charged via sworn complaint for false imprisonment, domestic battery and obstructing justice. 

Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Keith Evans met with the victim at Circle K around midnight.  

The victim told Evans that Gatlin became angry because she was packing her stuff to move out of their shared residence.

Gatlin stood in front of the door, blocking the victim from exiting the house. 

The victim attempted to exit the house through a window, but Gatlin stood in front of it and held it closed. 

The victim told Gatlin she’d call the police, but she didn’t have her phone on her. The victim had hidden her phone because Gatlin took it in previous altercations.

Gatlin tore off the victim’s Apple Watch to prevent her from using it to call the police. 

Gatlin reportedly pushed the victim on a bed and pressed his arm against her neck to obstruct her breathing. 

The victim had several bruises and injuries scattered across her. 

Evans was unable to make contact with Gatlin for a statement. 

Gatlin had a warrant issued for his arrest the day after the charges were pressed. 

According to court records, Gatlin’s warrant was canceled on August 3, 2021, and then reissued the same day. 

Gatlin’s warrant was served on December 18, 2024. 

Gatlin‘s bond is set at $150,000.

Gatlin has an arraignment scheduled for January 8.