Statement Regarding Friday Nights Criminal Actions in Hemming Park

Historically, and in literally hundreds of instances, protesters in Jacksonville have

had their right to peaceably assemble protected by the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office
without incident. And in doing so, officers have also worked diligently protecting
the rights of others who may or may not be participating in or impacted by the
actions of protestors. We train for and prepare for all scenarios and events.

Friday night was no exception. We attempt to meet with those who tell us of their
intention to protest. We provide guidance about the laws, our obligations, and the
rights of others. As per protest planning protocol, we dont tell groups where to go,
but we do tell them what they can and cannot lawfully do and specifically what
actions may result in arrest.

These events are fluid, and sadly, can become volatile. Agitators, aggressors, those
whose goal is to disrupt peaceful protests may engage with groups and cause the
situation to degenerate rapidly.

The obligation to behave lawfully rests with every individual involved. We

encourage organizers to educate members of a group and warn them of the
behaviors that are not lawful and how to not engage in conflict and confrontations,
and instead respond with a calm and peaceful demeanor.

Those who exercise their right to peaceably assemble and protest as responsible
adults, regardless of the environment that develops, must refrain from physical
violence towards one another or the police. Shoving, spitting on, kicking, hitting,
grabbing, depriving an officer of his or her ability to communicate and perform
their duties is against the law and will result in an arrest every time. We are
obligated to respond to resistance and violence with that force necessary to
overcome the resistance.

We take reasonable precautions to protect those attempting to engage in peaceful

demonstrations. But, as a result of Friday nights criminal activity, there is a new
dynamic involved in Jacksonville that has prompted me to look at how we manage
protests. I am working with my leadership team to determine what new protocols
may be put into place to successfully manage these events moving forward.
We encourage any group who is planning to gather in assembly or protest in a
public arena to contact their Zone Office, so we can work together to ensure a safe
and lawful outcome.

Thank you
Mike Williams
Sheriff, Duval County FL