13-Year-Old Arrested Pro-Choice Protest in Lakeland -

A social media shitstorm and media nightmare have erupted about the Lakeland Police Department on July 4th after a mom posted a video of her 13-year-old daughter being arrested by LPD for using a megaphone at a pro-choice rally in Munn Park.

The video has gained so much traction well beyond Lakeland. It’s been was tweeted by Nikki Fried, a Democratic candidate for Governor of Florida.

I'm posting this with her mother's permission because I need everyone to see what Ron DeSantis’ Florida really looks like.

13 year olds being arrested for protesting for their own freedom. pic.twitter.com/SmE6zA2SUk
— Nikki Fried (@NikkiFried) July 4, 2022

The video begins the moment Lillie Johnson was taken into custody as a crowd shouted, “My body, My choice!”

Lillie’s Court date Aug 9 for 2nd-degree misdemeanor charge for a noise ordinance violation.

If you what to help Lillie’s defense: Paypal [email protected]

Lillie’s father, Mike Johnson, who was not at the rally, said he was proud of his daughter.

Lillie’s attorney, David Haas, said the case will proceed to juvenile court if the State Attorney’s Office files a case.

“Then we’ll see if there are any challenges to the ordinate itself on a first amendment basis and see if it’s even applicable to what the allegations are here,” said Haas. He is not related to State Attorney Brian Haas. “My understanding there’s — I need to look at the ordinance — there’s some decibel amount contained in it and it’s supposed to pertain to screeching tires and loud music.”

See also No Squeeze Dec 20 - Jan 3

Lakeland Police Department spokeswoman Robin Tillett said since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned federal protections on abortion, hundreds of people have peacefully protested in various locations throughout the city. Hundreds of people gathered in front of Southgate Shopping Center on Thursday evening, holding up signs, shouting, honking horns, and some used megaphones. But Lakeland Police were not on scene at that time.