Risk Protection Orders

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," Florida Statute 790.401 allows law enforcement officers to file a petition asking a judge to enter a Risk Protection Order that may remain in effect for up to one year.

After one year, upon review, a judge may extend an RPO for an additional 12 months.

The subject of an RPO has the right to appear in court to contest the order. If the court finds after the hearing that the respondent has provided clear and convincing evidence that he or she does not pose a significant danger of causing personal injury to himself or herself or others by having in his or her custody or control, purchasing, possessing, or receiving a firearm or ammunition, the court must vacate the order.

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

A database of RPOs filed by the Volusia Sheriff's Office since 2019 is provided below.