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.

Sep 16, 2026

Sixth positive rabies case confirmed

Media Contact: Carrie E Horstman

The 6th case of rabies in Polk County this year has been confirmed in the Eloise area of Winter Haven.

On Thursday, September 10, 2026, a resident on 8th Street picked up what she thought was a mouse in her yard, and then realized it was a live bat. Animal Control Officers responded and recovered the bat, then sent its carcass to the state lab for testing.

Test results were received at Animal Control on September 15, 2026, confirming the bat tested positive for rabies. The woman was notified of the results and advised to contact the Department of Health for medical treatment.

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.