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 Carrie Horstman, Brian Bruchey, and Julianna Rivera. 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.

Apr 11, 2026

Polk County has third confirmed rabies case

Media Contact: Brian Bruchey

The third case of rabies in Polk County this year has been confirmed, this time within the city limits of Bartow.

As with the previous two cases, the rabid animal was a Brazilian free tailed bat.

On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, a family's cat was found near a live bat inside their home. It was not believed that the cat made any contact with the bat, but it is now under quarantine.

The bat was captured and sent to the State Laboratory in Tampa for testing.

Animal Control was notified of the result of the test, which confirmed the bat was positive for rabies.

“Do not hesitate to contact the Polk County Sheriff's Office Animal Control if you come into contact with sick, injured, or deceased wildlife. This is also a reminder how important it is to make sure your pets are vaccinated, even if it lives indoors.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Please do not approach any animal that is acting in an unusual or suspicious manner. If you think you or your pet has had an "exposure," please contact the PCSO Animal Control Section at 863-577-1762.