Florida’s Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey gave a strict warning to anyone planning violence during the weekend’s national protests. He said deputies would meet force with deadly force and would not hesitate to shoot if attacked. Speaking at a Thursday press conference, Ivey addressed growing tensions surrounding planned anti-ICE and anti-Trump protests. He warned people not to spit on or attack law enforcement and made it clear that his department would respond with strength.

“If you throw a brick, a firebomb, or point a gun at one of our deputies, we will be notifying your family where to collect your remains because we will kill you, graveyard dead. We’re not going to play.”

Ivey said protestors who mob cars or threaten deputies would be hurt or worse. He emphasized that violence will not be tolerated under any circumstances. The statement follows reports of thousands of “No Kings” protests scheduled nationwide. These protests have labeled President Trump a dictator and aim to fight federal immigration crackdowns. The sheriff added that if someone throws a brick or firebomb or points a weapon at an officer, they will be killed on the spot.

Protest Threats Ignite Strong Law Enforcement Response

The “No Kings” movement has become louder this year, especially following President Trump’s deportation campaigns. Many protestors are expected to rally during the weekend, the same time Trump plans a military birthday parade. In response, Trump deployed 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles. Texas Governor Greg Abbott also sent more than 7,000 forces to patrol cities there. Sheriff Ivey’s approach reflects a wider trend of law enforcement preparing for violence amid anti-Trump uprisings. While many call for peace, Ivey warned that chaos will be crushed swiftly and severely.