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Brevard County, FL - Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey sparked backlash for threatening lethal force against protesters after warning that violent protesters who block traffic or threaten deputies may be killed if they escalate demonstrations.
At a press briefing Thursday, Ivey, flanked by law enforcement and attended by state leaders, said anyone obstructing motorists can expect to be “run over and dragged” off roadways.
He added that those who spit at deputies could end up injured in hospital before facing charges, and that anyone allegedly throwing bricks or pointing firearms at officers would be “graveyard dead” and their families informed where to retrieve their remains.
His remarks come ahead of the planned “No Kings” protest, scheduled this weekend in reaction to recent immigration raids tied to the Trump administration.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier also appeared at the event, supporting Ivey’s firm stance against violent unrest and noting that doxing ICE agents will also bring legal consequences.
Critics argue that Ivey’s declarations amount to threats that undermine civil liberties.
Legal analysts have pointed out that excessive force is outlawed and that law enforcement must abide by strict rules concerning use of deadly force.
Ivey’s department has faced past scrutiny.
State records indicate multiple investigations into Brevard deputies for use of force dating back to 2016.
In 2021 Deputy William Gleason received a month suspension and was placed on probation.
In 2023 Officers Hunter Russell and John Follari faced sanctioning, with Russell’s certification revoked.
As Florida grapples with maintaining order during protests, these events in Brevard will likely prompt further debate and review.