Know Your Rights, Know Your Exit: A Protester’s Guide to Sarasota 'NO KINGS' Rally
- Admin
- Jun 13
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 3
If you’re arrested at a No Kings rally in Sarasota County:
1. Who to contact immediately
Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) handles arrests and booking in unincorporated areas.
Emergency: dial 911
Non‑emergency: 941‑316‑1201
Main switchboard: 941‑861‑5800 fox13news.com+12scgov.net+12mobilize.us+12fox13news.com+5sarasotasheriff.org+5scgov.net+5
You should be booked at the Sarasota County Jail (2020 Main Street, Sarasota) en.wikipedia.org.
Sarasota Police Department (SPD) would handle arrests inside city limits (like J.D. Hamel Park):
Emergency: 911
Main line: 941‑263‑6773 facebook.com+7sarasotapd.org+7mobilize.us+7
After being booked, you should contact a criminal defense attorney or a pre-arranged bail bondsperson to assist with release.
If you’re uninsured or can’t afford one, ask to be connected to public defender services or legal aid once arraigned.
2. Avoiding confrontations with non‑peaceful protesters
Know your surroundings:
Stick to the edges of the rally, away from any heated groups.
Identify exits or clear routes before crowds form.
Dress and act inconspicuously:
Wear neutral attire, avoid political insignia.
Keep your headphones, phone, and wallet secure.
Stay calm and observe:
If tension escalates—loud shouting, aggressive posturing—back away calmly.
Move to a safer, less crowded area or exit the park.
Plan your transportation:
Use rideshare or a designated driver so you’re not stranded.
Keep a charged phone and know the location of the nearest public parking.
Keep emergency contacts saved:
Have important numbers (attorney, bail bonds, public defender, a trusted friend) on speed dial.
Quick Reference
Scenario | Contact |
Arrest in county area | SCSO: 911 / 941‑316‑1201 |
Arrest in city limits | SPD: 911 / 941‑263‑6773 |
After booking | Your attorney or bail bondsperson |
Safety in crowds | Stay patient; back away if things escalate |
By knowing which agency to call based on location, keeping calm, and planning exits and contacts ahead of time, you’ll be prepared both legally and physically should things go sideways.
The 'NO KINGS' Rally & March will be held at JD Hamel Park in Sarasota on Saturday, June 14 from 5:30 until 8:30pm. SIGN UP NOW at Mobilize:
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