Man Admits to Shoving Victim After Arrest

Update | May 19, 2026: Updated article to reflect the outcome of the case.

On October 16, 2024, Gainesville Police Department (GPD) officers arrested Robert James Kirk, 35, and charged him with misdemeanor domestic battery. 

The victim reported that Kirk flipped a mattress while she was on it and shoved her three times, causing bruises. 

Gainesville Police Department (GPD) Officer Charles Talton reported that Kirk admitted to flipping the mattress and said he may have shoved the victim “once or twice, maybe three times.” 

Kirk’s bond was set at $25,000 by Judge Susan Miller-Jones.

On October 22, 2024, Kirk's public defender motioned to reduce his bond. According to the motion, the given bond was not affordable The motion states, "Mr. Kirk has lived in Gainesville, FL for the last 10 years and has built strong ties to the Gainesville community. Namely, Mr. Kirk recently helped Gainesville residents prepare for Hurricane Milton by filling sandbags at the Civilian Park. Additionally, Mr. Kirk has been employed at Wingstop on 25 NW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601, for two years and is currently being considered for a management role. If Mr. Kirk is released from custody, his employment will be maintained as verified by Wingstop management. If released Mr. Kirk will reside at Grace Marketplace to honor the no contact order in effect."

Judge Miller-Jones reduced the bond to $5,000, which Kirk posted.

On March 25, 2025, Kirk took a no contest plea deal where he was convicted and sentenced to one year of probation.

On February 3, 2026, Kirk's probation was terminated successfully.