Anti-Semitism Has No Place in Florida, Says Pre-Holiday Law Enforcement Memo

FLORIDA – Jews in the Sunshine State can feel safer during the High Holidays, with a memo from Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles making it clear that law enforcement will be on the lookout to deter any and all forms of anti-Semitism in the coming days.

Sent by Dave Kerner, executive director of FLHSMV, the memo was circulated Thursday widely throughout Florida’s Jewish communities in response to the continued incidence of anti-Semitism acts throughout the country.

It marks the first time that Florida law enforcement has notified the Jewish community that it will be taking official steps to have extra protection in place over Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur

“There have been recent shameful instances of antisemitic groups attempting to intimidate Florida’s Jewish communities,” wrote Kerner. “FHP is conducting criminal investigations where appropriate and individuals who violate the law will be punished to the fullest extent of the law. Should you or a member of your communities encounter any such situation, please immediately notify law enforcement.”

The memo made numerous references to House Bill 269 which was approved by Governor Ron DeSantis last May and made numerous acts intended to threaten people based on their religious beliefs a punishable offense.

It was released just one day after the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and Florida Highway Patrol arrested a Neo-Nazi demonstrator for hanging anti-Semitic posters from an I-4 overpass in Orlando as previously reported on VIN News.

“Governor DeSantis is taking real steps to protect its Jewish residents,” Florida Highway Patrol Chief Chaplain Rabbi Mark Rosenberg told VIN News. “There is no other state in the country that has a bill like HB 269 and the governor should be commended for leading the way in the fight against anti-Semitism.”

Rosenberg had similar words of praise for Kerner, and his efforts to ensure the safety of all Florida residents, including its faith-based communities.

“He has been a beacon of light since he has been in charge of FLHSMV, putting solid policies in place to protect all Floridians,” said Rosenberg.