Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has drawn a firm line in the sand, declaring Florida an “anti-riot state” while pledging robust protection for ICE agents amid escalating national tensions over immigration enforcement.
At a Glance
- Florida Attorney General Uthmeier vowed to protect ICE agents from violence and doxxing, contrasting Florida’s approach with California’s
- A new program allows ICE agents to report when personal information is revealed, with Florida Highway Patrol providing security checkups
- Brevard County Sheriff issued stark warnings that violent actions against law enforcement would be met with deadly force
- Florida has appointed its first “ICE liaison” to coordinate state immigration efforts with federal agencies
- Officials emphasized Florida’s 2021 anti-rioting law allows for criminal charges against protesters if actions turn violent
Florida Takes Stand as “Anti-Riot State”
During a press conference on June 12, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier made it abundantly clear that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will receive full protection in Florida. In response to recent immigration-related unrest in other parts of the country, Uthmeier emphasized that Florida stands apart from states like California in its approach to law enforcement support. The announcement comes as nationwide protests against deportation efforts have intensified, creating potential security concerns for federal immigration officials.
“Florida is the anti-riot state, and unlike California, we support law enforcement,” declared Uthmeier, setting a firm tone for how the state plans to handle potential unrest. This stance follows increasing national discord over immigration enforcement policies, with some communities across the country witnessing protests against ICE operations. Florida officials made it clear that while peaceful protest is protected, any violence directed at law enforcement will face swift and severe consequences.
New Protection Program for ICE Agents
A key component of Florida’s support for federal immigration officers is a newly established program designed to protect ICE agents from doxxing – the malicious publication of personal information. Under this initiative, ICE agents who believe their personal identifying information has been publicly revealed can report directly to Colonel Howze and the Florida Highway Patrol team for immediate assistance. The program represents a proactive approach to safeguarding federal officers during a politically charged time.
“We’ve set up a program where any ICE agent that believes personal identifying information has been revealed, will be able to report that Colonel Howze and the FHP team so that they can begin routine checkups and patrols to go make sure the families are OK — to keep an eye on the agents, and their homes and their families,” Uthmeier said.
Additionally, Florida has appointed its first “ICE liaison” to coordinate state immigration efforts with the federal government. This position will help streamline communication between state and federal agencies, ensuring that immigration enforcement activities proceed with proper coordination and support. The move signals Florida’s commitment to working alongside federal authorities on immigration matters rather than opposing them.
Strong Warnings Against Violence
Perhaps the most attention-grabbing aspect of Florida’s stance came from Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey, who delivered an uncompromising message to potential agitators. His warning left no ambiguity about how law enforcement would respond to violent actions against officers. The sheriff’s comments underscored the serious approach Florida officials are taking toward protecting both ICE agents and local law enforcement personnel from threats and violence.
These statements were reinforced by references to Florida’s anti-rioting law, passed in 2021, which allows for criminal charges against protesters whose actions turn violent. Governor Ron DeSantis has emphasized the distinction between lawful protesting and rioting, with the latter carrying serious legal consequences in Florida. Larry Keefe, executive director of the State Board of Immigration Enforcement, has even suggested implementing riot response tactics as part of a mass deportation strategy.
Coordinated Security Response
The Florida Highway Patrol will play a central role in providing additional support to ICE officers who feel intimidated or threatened. Regular patrols and security checks at the homes of ICE agents who report concerns will be conducted to ensure their safety and that of their families. This represents a significant commitment of state resources to protect federal immigration officials during what could become an increasingly contentious period in immigration enforcement.
The coordinated approach involves multiple agencies, including state and local law enforcement, working together to monitor potential threats and respond quickly if necessary. Officials have made it clear that they are prepared to take action against anyone who crosses the line from peaceful protest to violent confrontation. This multi-agency strategy aims to prevent the kind of unrest seen in other states while ensuring that immigration enforcement can proceed without interference.
