A federal judge found Florida’s anti-riot law a violation of First Amendment rights to free speech and assembly. The judge noted that the law was overbroad, “If this court does not enjoin the statute’s enforcement, the lawless actions of a few rogue individuals could effectively criminalize the protected speech of hundreds, if not thousands, of law-abiding Floridians.” (The Associated Press, September 9, 2021, by Curt Anderson)
The judge blocked enforcement of the law by Governor Ron DeSantis and three sheriffs. DeSantis guaranteed a victory on appeal. The law was enacted in response to the protests around the country over the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and imposes criminal penalties on those participating in protests that turn violent. (Miami Herald, September 10, 2021, by Ana Ceballos)