a day ago
‘We will not be intimidated': Tampa Bay organizers increase security ahead of area protests
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — With dozens of Tampa Bay area protests against policies enforced by the Trump Administration expected Saturday, safety is a concern for many. In other cities, some demonstrations have turned violent.
Florida state and local officials spoke against riots.
'We are not California. We do not allow rioting in the state of Florida,' said Florida State Attorney General James Uthmeier. 'We do not tolerate rioting as groups talk about assembling over the weekend, we haven't seen much of that in Florida. But if you do… we are ready across the state to ensure it is nipped in the bud right away.'
'We will kill you': Democrats, Republicans at odds over protest warning language
Threats of violence have been seen on social media. The Citrus County Sheriff's Office posted about a scheduled protest in Inverness, then they followed up with a video about the post.
'I am hopeful that some of the negative comments referring to violence or disruptions are made by a small minority, and maybe not even people from Citrus County,' said Sheriff David Vincent.
In Jacksonville, a man was arrested for threatening potential protesters when he posted a comment saying in part, 'I seen any large gatherings to protest ICE, I'm going to grab my buddies tow truck and plow through.'
'Well, it's certainly scary but we will not be intimidated by threats of violence,' said Helen Amburgey, an organizer with Pinellas NOW.
She said their priority is getting their message across in a safe way.
'Everyone at our event is committed to a peaceful protest. We make sure of that when they sign up,' Amburgey said. 'In light of current events, we have recruited additional volunteers, additional safety marshals.'
Amburgey said if someone starts causing problems during a peaceful protest, do not engage with them. Instead, she said to move to another area and get law enforcement involved if necessary.
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