Governor Ron DeSantis lead the charge today with broad, groundbreaking pro-police legislation that will protect both law enforcement and taxpayers in the state of Florida. Standing in solidarity with police chiefs and officers during a press conference from throughout his state, he described his “strong legislative response to the sad chapter” of rioting, harm, and destruction that have swept through many cities in our country.
The Governor’s legislative proposal is named the “Combatting Violence, Disorder and Looting and Law Enforcement Protection Act”. This legislation promises to be the “boldest comprehensive” legislation anywhere in the country. The Governor’s unequivocal stance on violence, destruction of property, and harm to citizens and police will deter those who attempt to create havoc.
DeSantis went on to say about his law enforcement officers, "I can tell you that when there is a victim in need in the state of Florida, regardless of race, color creed-- any characteristic you can think, when there is a victim at risk, these folks are going to respond and they are going to be there and they are going to stand up for the people who may not be able to stand up for themselves."
In that spirit, the consequential legislation specifies three areas of concern. Part One assigns felony offenses to five categories of offenses, including important scrutiny of RICO liability. Rico directs attention to sources of funding for violent assemblies which is a critical component of stopping the violence.
Part Two addresses “increased penalties” for harming officers and citizens. It also exacts penalties for individuals from another state who travel to participate in disorderly conduct. DeSantis explained, "If you look at some of the people who have been involved in some of this violence, these are the people that will come from all across the country--if there's any type of issue, they all of a sudden show up in all these places--and we're going to figure out who's organizing and who's funding that and hold them accountable."
Finally, Part Three secures material measures that protect citizens and taxpayers. These measures are “clear and predictable penalties” that will sternly help deter violent behavior in our cities.
Photo by: Ernst Peters/The Ledger
Governor DeSantis makes it abundantly clear with the announcement of this “take no prisoners” legislation that he aims to make protection of law enforcement and the citizens of Florida a top priority. He leaves no stone unturned in his mission to deter future unlawful and violent assembly. His belief is that if there are transparent and ”predictable” penalties for engaging in violence, the destruction and violence is more likely to cease. With this legislation, DeSantis not only delivers protection but he sets in motion material penalties that will serve as deterrents to unlawful behavior. As Sheriff Grady Judd said, "For everyone across the United States today, this is what leadership looks like."
