The Florida Sheriffs Association today released the following statement from FSA President and Levy County Sheriff Bobby McCallum in response to the information revealed by a Department of Justice whistleblower that shows the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division is collecting threat assessments related to parents to track for potential investigations:

“Nothing is more important than individual liberties and safety, and the Florida Sheriffs Association, like Governor DeSantis, is committed to protecting both. The Sheriffs of Florida will not participate in the federal government's effort to intimidate parents into silence. We are deeply troubled to hear allegations that the FBI is weaponizing its Counterterrorism Division to investigate parents who care about their children's education. Concerned parents are not domestic terrorists. We wholeheartedly oppose any infringement on anyone's first amendment rights. Florida's Sheriffs are the best in the nation, and we will take all appropriate action to protect everyone in Florida, including elected officials.”

# # #

Florida Sheriffs Association:
The Florida Sheriffs Association is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 corporation made up of the Sheriffs of Florida, approximately 3,000 business leaders and 100,000 citizens throughout the state. Founded in 1893, FSA has steadfastly served the citizens of Florida by supporting the needs of the state's law enforcement community. Through the Florida Sheriffs Association, Sheriffs are given a forum to address lawmakers to push for positive changes in Florida’s public safety arena. FSA also provides Sheriffs' Offices much-needed programs such as affordable training, special task forces and legislative and legal services. Dedicated to the prevention of juvenile delinquency and the development of lawful, productive citizens, FSA has established and funded the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches with facilities throughout the state to help restore hope, fulfill dreams, and prepare boys and girls for the future. It has grown to be one of the largest and most successful state law enforcement associations in the nation. For more information on the Florida Sheriffs Association, visit www.flsheriffs.org.