Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued a stern warning against violent actions directed at federal and state law enforcement officials. His remarks came following an incident involving a woman who allegedly assaulted a state trooper. During a recent news conference, DeSantis emphasized that such behavior would not be tolerated in Florida, stating, “This is not Minneapolis. This is not going to end well for you in Florida.”
The altercation took place outside the Mi Pueblo grocery store in Jacksonville on January 30, 2024. Footage from the incident shows Jennifer Cruz confronting officers after she allegedly punched a state trooper in the face. Witnesses reported that Cruz exited her vehicle and initiated the attack as law enforcement conducted an operation in the area.
Cruz’s actions were captured on a police dashboard camera, which Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier referenced in a social media post. He shared an image of Cruz appearing to smile during her arrest, stating, “This is Jennifer Cruz of Jacksonville. Jennifer disagrees with immigration enforcement and decided to commit a few felonies by getting out of her car and punching a Trooper in the face.” Uthmeier also made a pointed comparison to Minnesota officials, asserting, “But unlike Minnesota, we don’t put up with this nonsense.”
According to eyewitness reports, the situation escalated after law enforcement detained another individual in the grocery store parking lot. Juan Alvarez, the owner of the grocery store, described how the initial detention led to increased police presence and ultimately resulted in Cruz’s violent confrontation with the officers.
Cruz now faces multiple charges, including battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, and threatening harm to officers. She has been released on bond and is scheduled to appear in court on February 4, 2024.
During the news conference, DeSantis reiterated that while citizens have the right to express their opinions on government policies, physical assaults against law enforcement are unacceptable. “You have a right to go out there and criticize government policy,” he noted. “You can go out there and protest within respected zones, but the idea that you’re going to assault one of our troopers is unacceptable, and you are going to face consequences as a result of that.”
The incident has sparked discussions about the treatment of law enforcement and the boundaries of public protest. DeSantis’s comments reflect a broader stance on maintaining order and respect for officials in the line of duty.
