BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – People everywhere are reacting to a video posted by Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey earlier this week. He is calling for citizens to get guns and protect themselves. The video is stirring up debate and getting a lot of support.
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"One of the great things about being sheriff is that you're able to do and say what needs to be said and done to protect the citizens of your community," Ivey said in the video.
Ivey is very clear about what he believes is part of the answer to terrorist attacks and mass shootings. He wants the "good guys" to arm themselves, and shoot the "bad guys."
"The only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun, is a good guy with a gun," Ivey said.
His message is not only going viral, it's now the focus of news stories around the world. Though he repeatedly cautioned against vigilante justice in the six and a half minute video, Ivey did say that gun owners should "proactively engage anyone who threatens harm through terrorism or mass killings."
Close to five million people have watched the video and there are pages of comments, most in support.
Mike Akers wrote, "makes me want to move back to Brevard County."
Larry Rick added, "Wow! Awesome leadership. Lovely brilliant presentation. I feel safer already. I will be taking a concealed carry class."
There are also hundreds speaking out against the sheriff's message.
Valerie Nichols posted, "seriously? You want citizens to take up arms? We do not need vigilantes to keep the peace Brevard County."
Some are questioning how serious the sheriff is about the idea. Bryan Palmer posted a question directly to the sheriff's office on Twitter. " Are you willing to allow citizens in your community to posses and carry firearms of all types, unrestricted, to achieve this goal?"
To see the full video, click here.