Man Accused of Forcing Girlfriend to Strip for ‘Wire’ Search, Threatening to Kill Her and Friend
A Marion County man’s paranoia landed him in jail after he allegedly forced his girlfriend to strip so he could check her for surveillance wires before waving a gun around and threatening to kill her, her child, and her friend.
Deputies arrested Matthew Ruckdaschel on Friday on charges of simple battery (domestic) and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon without intent to kill following a disturbing series of events at his home on West Silver Springs Boulevard.
According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the victim told deputies that Ruckdaschel accused her of hacking into his business and demanded she strip so he could search for hidden wires. He allegedly pulled her ponytail, checked her hair for devices, then made her change into his clothing.
The victim told deputies Ruckdaschel took her phone and other belongings and attempted to tie her up, but instead made her sit on the couch after she laughed. At one point, he allegedly waved a gun and threatened to “put a bullet in her head” if she didn’t tell him the truth.
The victim’s friend, Kate Gast, told deputies that Ruckdaschel later dropped the victim off at her home but not before threatening to kill her, too. She reported that he had brought guns to the residence in the past and frequently showed up unannounced.
Deputies later found Ruckdaschel at his home, where he admitted to arguing with the victim over the alleged hacking but refused to answer further questions, instead requesting a lawyer. He was then taken into custody and booked into the Marion County Jail.
