Williams Arrested for Felony Charge Following Political Confrontation
An 18-year-old Donald Trump supporter, identified as Caleb James Williams, is facing a felony charge after police reported he threatened two Kamala Harris supporters with a two-foot-machete as they campaigned outside a Florida early voting site.
Charges and Arrest
Caleb Williams, a registered Republican, was charged with felony aggravated assault on a person 65 or older and misdemeanor exhibition of a dangerous weapon. Neptune Beach police records show Williams and seven 16- and 17-year-olds drove to protest and antagonize the opposing political side at a suburban Jacksonville library. The incident escalated when the group began shouting at a group of Harris supporters.
The Incident
Police Chief Michael Key Jr. displayed a photo taken by a witness of Williams "brandishing a machete in an aggressive, threatening posture." The Harris supporters he allegedly threatened are women aged 71 and 54. Chief Key emphasized that the moment "your piece" is said, the First Amendment right to free speech "goes out the window" when a lethal weapon is raised in a threatening manner.
Minimums and Maximum Sentences
Caleb James Williams was being held at the Duval County Jail after making his first court appearance on Wednesday afternoon. He was released on $55,000 bail and is ordered to stay 1,000 feet (300 meters) from any polling place except to cast his own ballot and to wear an ankle monitor. The minimum sentence for aggravated assault on a senior in Florida is three years in prison, with a maximum of 15 years.
Response from Political Figures
Duval County Democratic Chair Daniel Henry condemned the act as a troubling act of intimidation and urged all citizens to express their views peacefully without fear of reprisal. Conversely, Dean Black, Duval’s Republican chair, blamed the incident on the angry political atmosphere surrounding the election, adding that the environment is charged with President Trump surviving two assassination attempts.
Similar Incidents
The recent incident follows similar actions by other supporters:
- Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 19-year-old Pennsylvania man who fired at Trump during a July rally and was killed by a Secret Service sniper.
- Ryan Routh, a man charged last month with staking out Trump at his Florida golf course, was formerly a registered Democrat who voted for Trump in 2016 and wrote a book calling for Iran to assassinate Trump.
Call to Action
As the political climate heats up, it’s crucial to engage in civic activities respectfully and lawfully.igens the public can protect their democratic process by supporting peaceful and respectful political discourse. Join us in promoting non-violent, lawful practices to ensure a peaceful election cycle.
References
Source
Neptune Beach police records
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