Quick Hit:

Eric Trump now has the authority to make arrests in St. Lucie County, Florida. The second eldest son of former President Donald Trump was sworn in as a Special Deputy Sheriff on Tuesday, a position that grants him full law enforcement powers. Trump announced the news on Instagram, where he expressed his gratitude to Sheriff Keith Pearson and the men and women of the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.

Key Details:

• Eric Trump was sworn in by Sheriff Keith Pearson, and he proudly shared the news on Instagram. “I have always wanted to become a Sheriff! Thank you @SheriffKeithPearson and the incredible men and women of the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s (sic) Office. Truly an honor! #BackTheBlue #SheriffTrump,” Trump wrote in his post.

• Trump also jokingly addressed his brother, Donald Trump Jr., saying, “Ps @donaldtrumpjr you better not speed through St. Lucie county! I’m 👀 you!”

• Under Florida law, Sheriffs are allowed to appoint Special Deputies with full arrest powers, even if the individual has no prior law enforcement experience, as long as they meet basic requirements.

Diving Deeper:

Eric Trump, the second son of former President Donald Trump, was officially sworn in as a Special Deputy Sheriff in St. Lucie County earlier this week. As reported by Florida Politics, the ceremony took place on Tuesday, and Trump quickly took to Instagram to share the news with his followers. His post featured images of the swearing-in, including one where he stands beside a sniper rifle. 

In the post, Trump expressed his appreciation for the role, writing, “I have always wanted to become a Sheriff!” He thanked Sheriff Keith Pearson and the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, calling the appointment an honor. He also playfully warned his brother, Donald Trump Jr., to watch his speed when passing through St. Lucie County.

Florida law permits Sheriffs to appoint Special Deputies who meet certain basic qualifications, without requiring formal police training. These Deputies are granted full powers of arrest unless their duties are specifically limited.

Though Eric Trump lives in Palm Beach County, not St. Lucie County, Florida law doesn’t require Deputy Sheriffs to reside in the county they serve. Sheriff Pearson, who was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis, oversees law enforcement for the county’s more than 329,000 residents. Trump now joins a list of notable figures who have received similar honors, including celebrities like Elvis Presley and Steven Seagal.