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.

Jul 30, 2026

Fifth positive case of rabies in Polk County confirmed

Media Contact: Carrie Horstman, Media Relations Administrator

The 5th case of rabies in Polk County this year has been confirmed in Lakeland.

On Monday, July 27, 2026, Polk County Sheriff's Office Animal Control responded to Lakewood Circle after a woman reported her cat playing with a bat outside. The Animal Control Officer impounded the bat and its body was sent to the state lab for testing.

Test results were received at Animal Control today (July 30, 2026), confirming the bat tested positive for rabies. The cat is currently vaccinated.

“Rabies is a deadly disease - we urge everyone to stay alert and avoid contact with stray or wild animals acting strangely. If you see something suspicious, call us, don’t take chances with your health. Also, please keep your pets' vaccinations up to date.” – 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.