Sheriff’s office lieutenant issues apology after political social media posts

Lieutenant's posts criticized as ‘divisive’ and ‘unprofessional’

A sheriff’s office lieutenant in Florida has issued an apology after coming under fire for making political social media posts that were critical of the Black Lives Matter movement and other progressive causes.

In a statement posted to the sheriff’s office’s Facebook page, Lieutenant Richard Wooten said that he “deeply regrets” the posts, which he said “do not reflect the values of the sheriff’s office.”

“I apologize for any pain or offense that my posts may have caused,” Wooten said. “I am committed to serving the community with professionalism and respect, and I will strive to do better in the future.”

Posts criticized as ‘divisive’ and ‘unprofessional’

Wooten’s posts have been criticized by some as being “divisive” and “unprofessional.” In one post, Wooten shared a meme that depicted the Black Lives Matter movement as a “terrorist organization.” In another post, he criticized the use of transgender pronouns.

The posts drew swift condemnation from community members and activists. A group of protesters gathered outside the sheriff’s office to demand Wooten’s resignation.

The sheriff’s office has launched an internal investigation into the matter. Sheriff Mike Chitwood said that he is “deeply concerned” by the posts and that he will take appropriate disciplinary action if necessary.

Wooten’s apology comes after a number of other law enforcement officers have been fired or disciplined for making political social media posts. In recent months, police officers in New York City, Los Angeles, and other cities have been fired for posting racist or anti-Semitic content on social media.