Florida law‑enforcement officials announced the arrest of an Orlando resident accused of threatening a mass shooting against a Jewish community in Glades County. Jerry Sneed, 31, was taken into custody on Oct. 28 by agents from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and deputies from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigation and Charges
The investigation began on Oct. 19 after FDLE agents based in Fort Myers received reports of threatening posts on social media. The posts included statements promising violence, photographs showing the layout of the Glades County residential area, and an image of a firearm. After reviewing the material, agents secured an arrest warrant.
When officers arrested Sneed in Orlando, they discovered he was in possession of the same firearm depicted in the online posts. He now faces one count of making written or electronic threats to kill, cause bodily injury, or conduct a mass shooting or act of terrorism, along with one count of unlawful use of a two‑way communication device.
Law‑Enforcement Response
“FDLE remains committed to working with law‑enforcement partners to protect communities and keep Floridians safe,” the agency said in a statement. The State Attorney’s Office for the 20th Judicial Circuit will handle the prosecution, and officials confirmed that the investigation remains active.
Community Impact
The threatened community, a Jewish residential neighborhood in Glades County, expressed relief that authorities acted swiftly. Local leaders emphasized the importance of vigilance and cooperation with law‑enforcement to deter hate‑motivated threats.
Florida’s law‑enforcement agencies continue to prioritize the safety of all residents, regardless of faith or background, and have reiterated their dedication to rapid response when threats arise.
Legal Process
Sneed’s case will proceed through the 20th Judicial Circuit’s courts. If convicted, the charges carry significant penalties, reflecting the seriousness with which Florida treats threats of mass violence and the unlawful use of communication devices.
Authorities encourage anyone who encounters similar threats to report them immediately to local police or the FDLE, reinforcing a community‑wide effort to maintain safety and uphold the rule of law.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
