Sheriff encourages illegal aliens to self deport ahead of Trump inauguration
A Florida Sheriff’s Bold Message to Combat Illegal Immigration
A Florida sheriff is taking a strong stance against illegal immigration in the state, especially leading up to President-elect Trump’s inauguration. Sheriff Grady Judd of Polk County delivered a powerful message to those who are in the state illegally during a press conference.
“And I leave with this message: ‘Southbound and down.’ Do it yourself. You can self-deport and avoid a lot of prison sentence, but it’s time. Southbound and down,” Judd stated, emphasizing the need for individuals to take responsibility for their immigration status.
Judd was accompanied by Governor Ron DeSantis and other local and state officials in Winter Haven to address the issue of illegal immigration and discuss strategies to combat it. The sheriff highlighted that cracking down on illegal immigration would help reduce crime rates in the state.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd (Polk County Sheriff’s Office)
“Florida needs to set the example for the other states and support the president [Trump] to get rid of these criminals who are victimizing our people,” Judd emphasized, underlining the importance of taking action against criminal activities associated with illegal immigration.
During the press conference, Judd shared specific instances of crimes involving illegal immigrants, such as murder, DUI manslaughter, and organized theft rings. Governor DeSantis echoed Judd’s sentiments, expressing confidence in the upcoming Trump administration’s swift action on immigration policies.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis vowed to help President-elect Trump crack down on illegal immigration. (Getty Images)
“We in Florida have a sense of urgency to accomplish this mission,” DeSantis stated. “The mission is very simple: We need to end the illegal immigration crisis once and for all in these United States of America.”
Florida has taken legal action against the Biden administration on multiple occasions, challenging policies like “catch-and-release” at the southern border and the alleged refusal to assist the state in purging noncitizens from voter rolls. DeSantis has scheduled a special session to address funding for efforts to combat illegal immigration, including detention and relocation, following Trump’s inauguration.
Former President Trump expressed gratitude to DeSantis for calling the special session, urging other governors to follow suit. The state is determined to support Trump’s initiatives to tackle illegal immigration and eliminate incentives for illegal entry into Florida.
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Fox News Digital’s Landon Mion contributed to this report.
Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. For story tips and ideas, contact stepheny.price@fox.com
