Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) delivered a stern warning to looters looking to exploit the havoc caused by Hurricane Idalia. In a press conference following the hurricane’s devastating landfall, DeSantis made it clear that those attempting to profit from the disaster would face the full force of the law – and potentially more.
“I’ve told all our personnel at the state level, you know, you protect people’s property, and we are not gonna tolerate any looting in the aftermath of a natural disaster,” DeSantis declared, his voice echoing the fury of the hurricane itself. “It’s just ridiculous that you would try to do something like that on the heels of an almost Category 4 hurricane hitting this community.”
But it wasn’t just law enforcement that looters should fear – DeSantis also warned that residents themselves might take action. “I’d also just remind potential looters that people, you never know what you’re walking into,” he cautioned. “People have a right to defend their property. This part of Florida, you got a lot of advocates and some proponents of the Second Amendment.”
In a chillingly effective deterrent, the Governor recalled signs he’d seen in the past: “You loot, we shoot.” This stark warning was no idle threat. As DeSantis pointed out, anyone brazen enough to break into a home might find themselves facing an armed homeowner ready to defend their property.
This is not the first time DeSantis has issued such a warning. Following the destruction of Hurricane Ian last year, he reiterated the same message – Florida would not tolerate lawlessness in the wake of disaster. “We are a law-and-order state, and this is a law-and-order community, so do not think that you’re going to go take advantage of people who’ve suffered misfortune.”
DeSantis’ fierce stance comes as he temporarily halts his presidential campaign to lead Florida through this latest natural disaster. His unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and property of Floridians further cements his reputation as a leader unafraid to lay down the law.
As Hurricane Idalia continues to wreak havoc, one thing’s for sure – under DeSantis’ watchful eye, those looking to exploit the situation will find themselves in the path of a different kind of storm. Looters, be warned – Florida is prepared to fight back!
Leave a Comment