Florida sheriff warns he will deputize gun owners to counter protesters

CLAY COUNTY, Fla. — A northeast Florida sheriff issued a warning to people who may be thinking of bringing violent protests to the area.

In a video posted on social media, Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels said the statement is in response to the nationwide conversation about the strained relationship between police and the community.

“Is it a threat? Absolutely not, but somebody has to step up in front of the camera and say enough is enough. Tearing up Clay County? That’s not going to be acceptable and if we can’t handle you, you know what I’ll do? I’ll exercise the power and the authority as sheriff and I’ll make special deputies of every lawful gun owner in this county” Daniels said.

WJAX-TV contacted the sheriff’s office to see if there have been reports of violence at civil rights protests in the county. The department has not responded yet, the television station reported.

Cox Media Group