Recent correspondence between myself and senior officials of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) reveals a troubling refusal to confront misinformation being spread by its own deputies regarding lawful firearm carry.
The issue originated when a uniformed deputy, representing the office of Sheriff Billy Woods, advised a citizen that lawfully open carrying a firearm “eliminates the element of surprise” and “makes you a target.” The deputy further implied citizens required “authorization” to open carry — statements wholly unsupported by Florida law and directly contradicted by McDaniels v. State.
In multiple communications, I made clear that my inquiry was not about training deputies on the law itself, but about deputies interjecting personal opinions while in uniform that chill citizens from exercising their constitutional rights. I respectfully requested that a written directive or bulletin be issued reminding deputies to avoid personal commentary on lawful activity…