Florida Sheriff Issues Lethal Force Warning for Protests

Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey warned that any violence during the upcoming 'No Kings' protests against President Trump's immigration policies would be met with lethal force, stating, 'We will kill you graveyard dead' if law enforcement is attacked. The protests, organized by the 50501 Movement, are scheduled nationwide to coincide with Trump's birthday, Flag Day, and a major military parade in Washington, D.C. Ivey's remarks, echoed by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier at a June 12 press conference, drew swift condemnation from civil rights groups such as the ACLU of Florida, which warned law enforcement could face legal and financial consequences for excessive force. Supporters praised Ivey's tough law-and-order stance, while critics accused him of undermining democratic principles and threatening First Amendment rights. The warnings have intensified debate about protest safety and law enforcement tactics, with some urging protesters to stay home and others defending the right to peaceful demonstration. Florida law enforcement also promised to hold accountable those inciting violence or doxxing officers.