In 2018, in response to the tragic mass murder of 17 students and faculty at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, the Florida Legislature created a legal process for Risk Protection Orders (RPOs) to temporarily remove firearms and ammunition from those who pose a danger to themselves or others.

Commonly referred to as a "Red Flag Law," Section 790.401, Florida Statutes, allows law enforcement officers to file a petition asking a judge to enter an RPO that may remain in effect for up to one year.

There are several situations where seeking an RPO may be appropriate, such as situations where an individual is experiencing a mental health crisis, or situations involving ongoing domestic violence.

Once the court grants an RPO against an individual, a violation of the RPO by the individual would be a 3rd degree felony, punishable by up to five years in state prison.

After one year, upon review, a judge may extend an RPO for an additional 12 months. When an RPO is about to expire, the Sunrise Police Department evaluates the case to determine whether the Department wants to request that the court extend the RPO for another 12 months.

What can you do if you believe someone poses a danger to themselves or others if they have access to firearms or ammunition?

Contact the Sunrise Police Department and provide information about the person concerned, including:

• their mental health condition,
• any threats or acts of violence,
• any other facts that raise a concern for safety, and
• any firearms and ammunition in their possession.

For more information about RPOs, visit https://www.flcourts.org/Resources-Services/Risk-Protection-Orders and https://www.17th.flcourts.org/risk_protection_orders/