POLK COUNTY, Fla. – In a dramatic display of Florida’s constitutional right to bear arms, two shoppers at a Dollar General in Polk County stepped in when a 36‑year‑old illegal immigrant from Colombia became intoxicated, brandished a knife and threatened other customers.
What happened
According to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, the woman, identified as Natalia Gaviria of Kissimmee, entered the store heavily intoxicated. Surveillance footage shows her pulling a knife from her bag, waving it around and even stabbing a soda bottle on the floor.
Store employees quickly evacuated patrons and called 911. While deputies were en route, two residents who were carrying concealed firearms approached the suspect and held her at gunpoint until law enforcement arrived.
Sheriff’s response
Sheriff Judd praised the citizens, saying, “Congratulations to the citizens who intervened when a violent felony was occurring. You kept everyone safe until the sheriff’s office arrived.” He also reminded the public that Florida law does not require a permit to carry a concealed weapon.
Judd added a stern warning to the suspect, noting her illegal status: “Maybe you act that way in Colombia, but you don’t act that way in Florida or Polk County. We will pull our guns on you here.”
Legal outcome
Gaviria was taken into custody and charged with disorderly intoxication, theft of the stabbed soda bottle and two counts of assault. The sheriff’s office confirmed her illegal‑immigrant status.
Community impact
The incident underscores the ongoing debate in Florida over permit‑less carry and immigration enforcement. Supporters argue that armed law‑abiding citizens can protect themselves and others when police response is delayed, while critics worry about the potential for escalation.
Polk County officials have not released the identities of the two armed residents, but Sheriff Judd’s statement highlights the county’s commitment to upholding both public safety and constitutional rights.
Background on Florida’s carry law
Florida’s “constitutional carry” law, enacted in 2023, allows anyone who is legally allowed to own a firearm to carry it concealed without a state‑issued permit. The law has been praised by Second‑Amendment advocates and criticized by gun‑control groups who fear it could increase the risk of confrontations.
This incident provides a real‑world example of the law in action, illustrating how ordinary citizens can intervene in violent situations while remaining within the bounds of state statutes.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
