A Riverview woman has been taken into custody after allegations of making online death threats toward Governor Ron DeSantis. The arrest was made public by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday, with the information stating an event chain that began the day before when the Florida Department of Law Enforcement alerted local authorities about menacing statements on the Governor's state website.
Identified as Danyele Callaway, the 20-year-old resident of Riverview is said to have requested an "immediate in-person" meeting through her comments, accompanied by threats to DeSantis' life, as reported by WFLA. Callaway is no stranger to law enforcement, with a record that includes arrests for domestic violence-related offenses and battery on public servants a history that includes prior verbal threats against the governor.
In a response to these distressing events, deputies visited Callaway’s home for a mental health evaluation. During this visit, she reportedly admitted to authoring the digital threats. Callaway was detained under the provisions of the Baker Act, which allows for involuntary examination, and now faces charges including a written or electronic threat to kill or inflict bodily injury, according to ABC Action News.
In a statement obtained by WFLA, Sheriff Chad Chronister emphasized zero tolerance for such threats, underscoring the belief that while dissent is permitted, endangering lives crosses a solemn line. "We will not accept a threat against anyone in our community, especially our Governor. Threatening the lives of those who serve our democratic institutions is an attack on the very principles of our society and justice system," Chronister said. "This case is a stark reminder that violent threats will not be tolerated. We will continue to pursue and hold accountable anyone who seeks to disrupt the peace and safety of our community.", as reported by WFLA. The investigation into the matter is ongoing, with the Sheriff's office taking lead.
