LAKE CITY, Florida – A man with a documented history of stalking was arrested Thursday evening following an incident at a Lake City supermarket.
According to the Lake City Police Department, officers responded around 6:25 p.m. on January 29, 2026, to the Save-A-Lot Supermarket at 1036 E. Duval Street after receiving a report of stalking. When officers arrived, they spoke with an adult victim who reported recognizing a male who had previously been documented for stalking behavior.
Store employees told officers they noticed the victim appeared visibly frightened while in the checkout area and said they stepped in to assist and remain with the victim until police arrived.
Officers conducted an on-scene investigation, interviewed those involved, and identified the suspect as 54-year-old Richard Albert Nixon of Lake City. Police confirmed prior reports and investigative records that documented repeated incidents in which Nixon allegedly followed and harassed the victim at multiple public locations throughout the city.
Based on the totality of the circumstances and the prior documentation, officers determined there was probable cause for an arrest. Nixon was taken into custody and charged with stalking under Florida Statute 784.048(2) and violation of parole under Florida Statute 947.21. He was transported to the Columbia County Jail for booking.
“Stalking behavior is dangerous and escalates when it’s ignored,” said Chief of Police Gerald Butler. “We take these reports seriously, and when we have probable cause, we will act quickly to protect victims and hold offenders accountable.”
Anyone with information about this or other crimes 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.
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