The Kentucky Court of Appeals has upheld a domestic violence order against Roderick Edward Gaddy, affirming the protection for Rhea Brooke Garrett and her children. The court's decision, rendered on October 30, 2026, follows allegations of domestic violence and online harassment by Gaddy, affecting Garrett and her family.

The case, identified as docket number 2025-CA-0626, arose from a petition filed by Garrett in January 2025. She sought an order of protection after enduring a history of abuse, including physical violence and harassment. This ruling is significant as it reinforces the court's commitment to protecting victims of domestic violence and ensuring their safety.

Background

Roderick Edward Gaddy and Rhea Brooke Garrett were in a relationship for approximately three and a half years, during which they lived together in Nashville, Tennessee. Their relationship deteriorated after an incident of domestic violence in March 2024, prompting Garrett to leave and return to Kentucky. Following this, she reported escalating abusive behavior from Gaddy.

On January 28, 2025, Garrett filed a petition for a domestic violence order in Barren Family Court, seeking protection for herself and her minor daughter. In her petition, she detailed instances of Gaddy's abusive conduct, including online harassment where he allegedly posted nude photographs of her and shared personal information about her children. The court's involvement began after Garrett's claims of stalking and threats made by Gaddy, which she reported in her petition.

The Ruling

The Kentucky Court of Appeals, led by Judge Taylor, affirmed the family court's decision to issue a domestic violence order against Gaddy. The court found that sufficient evidence supported Garrett's claims of domestic violence. Judge Taylor stated, "The court found that domestic violence had occurred and may again occur," confirming the need for protective measures.

During the hearings, which Gaddy did not attend, the court reviewed evidence presented by Garrett and her attorney. The court concluded that Gaddy's actions constituted a pattern of abusive behavior, justifying the issuance of the domestic violence order for three years. The court also addressed Gaddy's claims of improper service and due process violations, ultimately finding that he had been adequately notified of the proceedings.

Impact

This ruling has significant implications for domestic violence victims in Kentucky. By affirming the domestic violence order, the court reinforces the importance of protecting individuals from abusive relationships and harassment. The decision also clarifies that courts can issue protective orders that extend to family members, even if they are not directly involved in the petition.

The court's findings serve as a reminder that evidence of online harassment can be sufficient to support a domestic violence order, expanding the understanding of what constitutes abusive behavior. This case may set a precedent for future cases involving similar circumstances, emphasizing the need for courts to take allegations of domestic violence seriously.

What's Next

Gaddy has the option to appeal the court's decision to a higher court, although details regarding any potential appeal were not available in the court filing. There are no related cases pending at this time.