A man residing in Hialeah, whose nationality remains undisclosed, is facing serious charges following a series of incidents that police claim amount to repeated harassment of a former business partner.
Gabriel Peña, aged 44, was taken into custody this Tuesday and is being held as his legal proceedings unfold.
Authorities accuse him of engaging in a "deliberate, malicious, and repeated" pattern of behavior that has caused "considerable fear and distress for the victim and their family."
Financial Dispute Escalates to Harassment
The situation originated from a financial disagreement. According to the police, the trouble began two years ago after the dissolution of a business agreement between Peña and his former partner, who reportedly owed him around $200,000.
Instead of pursuing legal avenues, Peña allegedly chose to confront his ex-partner directly and persistently, showing up repeatedly at locations where the ex-partner was present to demand repayment.
The victim reported a series of "suspicious encounters" that led to an increasing sense of insecurity.
The situation escalated until December 4, 2025, when a home security alert revealed someone was at the entrance of the victim’s house.
Unauthorized Tracking and Surveillance
Security camera footage captured a man dressed entirely in black, wearing a cap, a long-sleeve Gymshark sweater, athletic pants, and dark shoes.
Shortly thereafter, the victim's cell phone detected a tracking device placed on their vehicle. After investigation, officers directly connected the device to Gabriel Peña.
This discovery was pivotal, as the unauthorized placement of a tracking device constitutes an additional offense, strengthening the aggravated stalking charge.
Arrest and Accused's Reaction
On January 27, Peña was finally apprehended while once more at the victim's doorstep, again wearing a black Gymshark hoodie and a dark cap.
According to the police report - quoted by Local 10 - upon being informed of the charges, Peña responded sarcastically, "Is this what I get for knocking on someone's door?"
The police noted that the accused repeatedly ignored the victim's requests to resolve the matter legally, insisting on direct approaches that led to persistent harassment.
Charges and Potential Legal Consequences
Gabriel Peña now faces charges of aggravated stalking, unauthorized installation of a tracking device, and trespassing.
Under Florida law, aggravated stalking is classified as a third-degree felony. If convicted, Peña could face up to five years in prison, five years of probation, and fines up to $5,000.
This crime is characterized by a credible threat causing the victim reasonable fear of death or bodily harm. Peña's actions—following the victim, showing up unannounced at their home, and placing a tracker—heighten the severity of the case, justifying the aggravated stalking charge.
As of the closing of this report, Gabriel Peña remains in custody at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center (TGK), with bail yet to be set.
The case highlights a troubling trend where civil or financial disputes escalate into acts of intimidation or harassment, endangering not only the direct victims but also their families.
Legal Ramifications of Aggravated Stalking in Florida
What constitutes aggravated stalking under Florida law?
Aggravated stalking in Florida involves a credible threat that causes the victim reasonable fear of death or bodily harm, often involving repeated malicious behavior.
What penalties could Gabriel Peña face if convicted?
If found guilty, Gabriel Peña could face up to five years in prison, five years on probation, and fines reaching $5,000 for aggravated stalking and related charges.
How did the authorities link Gabriel Peña to the tracking device?
Investigators traced the unauthorized tracking device found on the victim's car directly to Gabriel Peña, which significantly bolstered the case against him.