Fact Check: "Sheriff Ivey threatened to kill anti-ICE protesters during a press conference."
What We Know
On June 12, 2025, Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey made a series of alarming statements during a press conference regarding anticipated protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He explicitly warned that if protesters engaged in violent actions, such as throwing bricks or firebombs, they would face lethal consequences. He stated, "we will be notifying your family where to collect your remains because we will kill you, graveyard dead" (NBC News, USA Today). His comments were made in the context of expected demonstrations across the country, particularly in response to federal immigration policies.
Sheriff Ivey emphasized that while peaceful protests are welcome, any violent actions would not be tolerated, asserting that those who attack deputies would be met with severe force (Democracy Now, WESH). His remarks drew significant backlash, including criticism from the ACLU of Florida, which labeled his threats as "extremely un-American" and inappropriate for an elected official (USA Today, People).
Analysis
The statements made by Sheriff Ivey were widely reported and have been corroborated by multiple reputable news sources. His explicit threats to protesters were not only alarming but also indicative of a broader trend among law enforcement officials in Florida, particularly regarding the state's stance on protests and immigration enforcement. The sheriff's comments were part of a preemptive measure to deter violence during the planned protests, which were expected to coincide with a national demonstration called "No Kings Day" (NBC News, Komonews).
The context of these remarks is crucial. They came after a week of protests in other cities, where clashes between law enforcement and protesters had occurred. Ivey's statements reflect a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of violence against law enforcement, which he framed as a necessary stance to protect his deputies (WESH, Democracy Now). However, the aggressive nature of his threats raises ethical concerns about the appropriateness of such language from a law enforcement leader.
The reliability of the sources reporting on this incident is high, as they include established news organizations and platforms that prioritize journalistic integrity. The ACLU's response also adds a layer of credibility, indicating that the comments have sparked significant public discourse and concern regarding civil liberties (USA Today, People).
Conclusion
The claim that Sheriff Ivey threatened to kill anti-ICE protesters during a press conference is True. His explicit threats to use lethal force against violent protesters were clearly articulated and widely reported. The context of his statements, alongside the reactions they provoked, underscores the seriousness of his remarks and their implications for civil rights and public safety.
Sources
- Florida Sheriff Wayne Ivey threatens to kill violent protesters NBC News
- 'We will kill you': Florida Sheriff issues brutal warning to ICE YouTube
- Sheriff threatens protesters with dire consequences Komonews
- Florida sheriff warns protesters not to attack deputies USA Today
- “We Will Kill You”: Florida Sheriff Threatens Protesters Democracy Now
- Florida sheriff threatens death over violent ICE raid protests WESH
- Florida Sheriff Threatens to Kill Unruly Protestors Ahead of People
- Florida Sheriff's Chilling Warning for Violent Protesters YouTube
