Sheriff Wayne Ivey's Urgent Message: ARM YOURSELF!

Florida’s Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey posted a controversial – but necessary – message to his citizens on social media.

Sheriff Ivey said that citizens need to arm themselves in self-defense to protect from terrorists, criminals, and other evil-doers.

“Folks, now more than ever is the time for our citizens to be prepared to serve as the first line of defense, not only for them, but for their families,” he said, reported by Fox News.

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In the video, showing images from the Orlando shooting, Ivey warned residents that attacks have happened locally as well as abroad.

“What’s next is to fully understand that this is war, and you better be prepared to wage war to protect you, your family, and those around you if attacked,” he said.

Ivey emphasized that attackers actually count on people running, hiding, and waiting for help, rather than fighting back.

“What they don’t count on is being attacked themselves, having to become defensive to save their own lives,” Ivey argued.

He said calling 911 means officers are on their way, but said, “Until they arrive, it’s up to you and those with you to neutralize or eliminate the threat.”

Ivey encouraged people to take self-defense classes, and urged those with concealed weapons permits to carry their guns with them at all times.

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“No matter who you are or what your position is on guns, there’s no denying the fact that the only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun or a knife is an armed and well-prepared citizen or law enforcement officer,” Ivey said.

The sheriff’s message received a mixed response. Some residents applauded his stance while others criticized it, calling it “fear-mongering” and saying it encourages vigilantes.

The leftist Orlando Weekly wrote, “Essentially, the only thing that Ivey’s latest video accomplishes is creating unnecessary fear among the people he represents. Perhaps this elected official should spend more time spinning his wheel of fugitives, and less time stoking paranoia.”