Florida Sheriff Warns Deadly Force Against Violent ICE Protesters

Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey issued a stark warning to potential anti-ICE protesters in Florida, declaring that any violent actions against law enforcement, such as throwing bricks, firebombs, or pointing guns, would be met with deadly force, stating, "we will kill you, graveyard dead." He emphasized that peaceful protests are permitted and constitutionally protected but warned that acts like blocking roads, spitting on officers, or assaulting deputies would result in hospitalization, jail, and potentially being attacked by police dogs. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier supported this firm stance, highlighting Florida as an "anti-riot state" that protects ICE and Border Patrol agents against violence and doxxing, promising swift accountability for offenders. The warnings come amid nationwide protests against ICE arrests, including large planned demonstrations coinciding with President Donald Trump's birthday parade and the deployment of National Guard troops in California. Sheriff Ivey contrasted Florida’s tough law enforcement approach with the unrest seen on the West Coast, underscoring that violence will be met with force to maintain safety and order. Both officials stressed they would protect peaceful demonstrators while taking a zero-tolerance approach to violence or intimidation against law enforcement.