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Curfew issued, National Guard activated following violent protests in Tampa

Posted at 4:31 PM, May 31, 2020
and last updated 2020-05-31 23:05:41-04

TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa Mayor Jane Castor has issued a curfew for the City of Tampa following a night of violent protests.

The curfew for all businesses and people within the City of Tampa will be from 7:30 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. until further notice.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister decided not to institute a county-wide curfew.

On Saturday, May 30, Gov. Ron DeSantis activated the National Guard. Officials said 100 guardsmen were sent to Tampa at 4 p.m.

“What I saw last night was not a call for voices to be heard, ideas to effect change, or ways to shine a light on inequality,” said Mayor Jane Castor.

Earlier Sunday Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan and Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister issued stern warnings to protesters on Sunday.

“What I saw was shameful, what I saw was heartbreaking. And what I saw did not reflect our community and the values we share. We stand in solidarity with all of the peaceful protests happening in our city and around the country.”

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Violation of the order is a second-degree misdemeanor which carries a penalty of up to 60 days imprisonment and/or a $500 fine. According to Florida Statutes, it could also lead to a first-degree misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of up to one year imprisonment and/or a $1000 fine.

The Executive Order takes effect immediately.

The Mayor will hold a 5:30 p.m. news briefing on the curfew.

Watch it live here, on ABC Action News at 5:30 over the air and cable, or our FREE Streaming News Channel.

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