Polk County Sheriff’s Phone# 863-298-6200
If in an emergency Dial 911
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.
Oct 15, 2025
First case of rabies confirmed for 2025
Media Contact: Juliana Rivera, PIO
The first case of rabies in Polk County this year has been confirmed in Lakeland.
On Sunday, October 12, 2025, a vet tech at Parkway Veterinary Emergency Clinic was bitten by a stray cat that was brought in for care. The woman who transported the cat also sustained two scratches.
The cat’s body was sent to the State Laboratory in Tampa; test results were received at Animal Control today, confirming the cat tested positive for rabies.
Both victims have been advised to receive the appropriate medical treatment.
“Rabies is a deadly disease, and even one case is one too many. 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.” – 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.