Flagler County Sheriff Asking Community To Keep It Peaceful At Political Rallies & Protests

Bunnell, FL – After a video of a Flagler County resident claiming to be "buddies" with Sheriff Rick Staly disrupting  a large gathering of people who came together to show support for a particular Presidential candidate, the Sheriff is asking residents to remain peaceful and think rationally, not just with emotion. “I do not personally know this individual and I certainly do not condone his aggressive behavior. It is behavior like this that causes serious and sometimes deadly incidents,” Sheriff Staly said. “I have directed our Homeland Security Section to look in to this troubling video.” Staly said every American has been granted Constitutional Rights and the First Amendment grants all Americans the right to freedom of speech and the right to peacefully assemble. “Emotions are high this election season. If you choose to support a political candidate, please do so peacefully and respect the rights of others who may not agree with your views,” Sheriff Staly continued. “We will protect everyone’s First Amendment rights. If there is a peaceful assembly taking place and you do not agree with their stance, don’t go to their gathering, don’t drive through it and don’t antagonize people. This kind of behavior only hurts your cause and can be extremely dangerous for everyone. You don’t have to agree with someone to be kind to them.” As always, if you see something, say something. If you encounter suspicious activity, please report it to FCSO by calling 386-313-4911. For emergencies, please dial 9-1-1.