After saying he’s heard rumors that protestors were planning on infiltrating residential neighborhoods, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd made the comment Monday during a press conference.

“Because the people of Polk County like guns, they have guns, I encourage them to own guns, and they’re going to be in their homes tonight with their guns loaded,” Judd said. “And if you try to break into their homes to steal, to set fires, I’m highly recommending they blow you back out of the house with their guns. So, leave the community alone.”

“We’re united about the conduct that you saw with George Floyd,” he said. However, he added he doesn’t support looting and violence. “We are going to hunt you down and lock you up if you engage in any criminal conduct,” Judd warned.