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 Meghan Petty. 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.

Mar 26, 2025

PCSO’s 11th Annual Judd Jog 5K for Charity is April 26, 2025

Media Contact: Carrie Horstman, Administrator

On your mark - get set - GO! This year's 11th annual Judd Jog 5K is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Early registration is open now at www.JuddJog.org. All participants who register by April 1st are guaranteed a T-shirt. All registrants will be entered to win raffle prizes as well.

The cost to participate is $40.00, and all of the proceeds benefit the United Way of Central Florida. Families and children are welcome, and everyone will receive a medal. Winners in different categories will also be awarded.

And back by popular demand we will have the Sheriff's Star Sprint for kids between the ages of 4 and 8 years old, with a $5.00 fee to participate.

Event day check-in and on-site registration begins at 7:00 a.m. at the PCSO Sheriff's Operations Center, 1891 Jim Keene Blvd in Winter Haven. The race will start at 8:00 a.m. - and those who wish to walk are also welcome!

Sponsorship opportunities are available - please visit the event website for more information.