Recruit Removed from Florida State Guard Training Amid Threatening Comments

A recruit for the Florida State Guard was removed from a Jacksonville training facility and sent for a mental health evaluation after making alarming comments, including threats to kill Jews and Palestinians and “blow up” a military base. The incident, occurring in February, underscores concerns about vetting processes within the civilian military force under Governor Ron DeSantis’ command.

The 23-year-old recruit from Fleming Island was two weeks into a month-long training camp when two fellow trainees reported his threatening remarks to authorities, as revealed in a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office report obtained by the Miami Herald/Tampa Bay Times. Witnesses recounted hearing the recruit express intentions to use explosives and target specific ethnic groups.

Law enforcement’s categorization of the incident as a mental health case prompted the recruit’s transfer to a hospital under the Baker Act, allowing involuntary commitment for individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others.

Sierra Dean, spokesperson for the State Guard, emphasized the organization’s zero-tolerance policy for abusive behavior and confirmed the recruit’s removal from training.

The incident sheds light on broader challenges faced by the State Guard in its rapid expansion under DeSantis’ leadership. Despite efforts to bolster recruitment and training, issues with vetting processes have emerged, with some recruits having prior legal troubles or questionable backgrounds.

Enhanced background checks, including federal screenings, have been implemented following recent legislative approval. However, concerns remain regarding mental health screenings, with no specific requirements outlined in Florida law.

The recruit in question denied making threatening statements, attributing allegations to personal conflicts with fellow trainees. While law enforcement found no immediate threat after detaining him, questions linger about the effectiveness of the State Guard’s vetting procedures in ensuring the safety and integrity of its members.

With approximately 300 active State Guard members and deployments to address various state emergencies, including natural disasters and immigration issues, the organization faces ongoing scrutiny and the imperative to address vulnerabilities in its recruitment and training protocols.