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News and Investigations

News & Investigations

News Releases and Public Information

Welcome to the Polk County Sheriff's Office News Room, where the Public Information Officers (PIO's) post all of the information that they release to the news media. PIO's act as liaisons between news media organizations and the Sheriff's Office. The PIO's routinely release timely and accurate information and Crime Stoppers bulletins, and respond to routine and "breaking news" media inquiries. News releases and Crime Stoppers information can be found on this page.

PCSO's full-time Public Information Officers are Brian Bruchey, Carrie Horstman, and Alicia Manautou. The Public Information Officers can be reached by sending an e-mail collectively at PIOs@polksheriff.org

The recent news releases sent out by the PIOs can be found here, and archived releases (older than 2017) can be found here.

Rabid bat
Feb 22, 2024

Polk County has first con...

Bat found with rabies in Lakeland

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STARR program graphic
Feb 21, 2024

Breaking down silos: New,...

The STARR program is a new mental health alliance partnership between the Polk County Board of Count...

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Operation Pop Top
Feb 16, 2024

Eight convenience stores ...

One sales clerk arrested for illegal alcohol sales

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John Whitesides
Feb 12, 2024

Winter Haven man arrested...

Heavily intoxicated, threatening, and leaving his boat in the middle of a busy road

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Operation Pop Top
Feb 7, 2024

OPERATION POP TOP: Two sa...

2 clerks arrested for selling booze to underage person

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Richard Alcalde
Feb 7, 2024

High school teacher/socce...

PCSO arrests 26yr old teacher after he admits to sexual battery of 17yr old student

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