News and Investigations

A presentation sponsored by Polk Vision and focused on the lessons learned in the aftermath of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas tragedy and how to avoid similar tragedies from occurring in Polk County, will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 17, 2022, at the Polk State College Center for Public Safety, 1251 Jim Keene Blvd in Winter Haven.

Sheriff Grady Judd and Polk County Public Schools Superintendent Frederick Heid will lead the discussion and present information that focuses on key stakeholders, such as mental health professionals, therapists, counselors, school faculty, and law enforcement, sharing information and working together for the safety and security of our most precious resource – our children. 
 
“I invite citizens and community stakeholders to join us in discovering what we in Polk County have learned from the Marjory Stoneman Douglas tragedy. What we know now is there were multiple missed opportunities due to communication barriers – or silos – that allowed this horrible massacre to occur. We have always worked alongside Polk County Public Schools to share information proactively and during emergencies, and we take every threat seriously - but school safety is not just the responsibility of law enforcement and the school system - it is everyone in the community’s responsibility. Join us as we discuss this collaboration and how we can best work together as a community to keep our community safe.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff 
 
The presentation will include video from Marjory Stoneman Douglas, which is graphic in nature. Attendee discretion is advised, and children should not attend. There is no cost to attend. 

Please click this link to register.