A Florida sheriff has issued a stark and unapologetic warning to home intruders, making it clear that criminal activity would not be tolerated in his jurisdiction. Emphasizing the right of law-abiding citizens to defend themselves, Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells urged homeowners to "shoot intruders if necessary" to protect their families and property. His warning reflects a growing frustration with rising crime rates across the nation and resonates with those who advocate for the Second Amendment and self-defense rights. While critics decry Wells's statement, supporters argue Americans must take their safety into their own hands.
Wells alerted people who break into homes to be “expected to be shot,” supporting a homeowner who recently shot at two intruders after they broke into his house, killing one while the other one fled the scene.
“[The homeowner] knew something bad was about to happen, and he didn’t stall. He grabbed his firearm [and] told his wife to get into a safe spot,” Wells said. “This is the state of Florida. If you want to break into someone’s home, you should expect to be shot.”
BREAKING: Attempted home invasion in Bradenton FL. — homeowner starts shooting, killing one of the intruders.
— Dapper Detective (@Dapper_Det) December 27, 2024
Both of the suspects are Chilean nationals.
Sheriff Rick Wells: “This is the state of Florida. If you want to break into someone's home, you should expect to be shot.” pic.twitter.com/pchx5jLCrD
During a news conference, the sheriff said that the homeowner's surveillance camera detected motion on the side of his home and saw two masked men when he looked at the footage. He reportedly told his wife to hide in a safe place before grabbing his gun. The intruders, one of whom is named Jorge Nestevan Flores-Toledo, were apparently from Mexico. The other one is Michel Soto-Mella, who had a warrant out for his arrest and was considered armed and dangerous. He served four months in jail for residential burglary before being released on parole in November of this year. Soto-Mella was in the United States illegally from Chile after his 90-day visa expired in September.
