Sheriff Grady Judd

On January 2nd, a 22’ Sportsman Platinum boat, motor, and trailer were stolen from the area of North Pine Ave and 5th St. NE, in Ft. Meade, by an unknown suspect(s).

The boat hull and trailer were later discovered abandoned in the 4000 block of Noralyn Mine Rd Bartow. The motor (200 horse power Yamaha) and several accessories including a power pole and fishing rods, had been removed from the boat.

Surveillance video recovered from the area of the theft revealed a gray pickup, possibly a Ford, northbound on North Charleston Ave (Highway 17) with the stolen boat towed behind at approximately 2:51 a.m.

If you have information about this theft please contact Detective Walsh with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at (863)499-2400, or if you wish to remain anonymous, contact Heartland Crime Stoppers - call 1-800-226 TIPS (8477), visit the website www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on "Submit A Tip," or download the free "P3tips" app on your smartphone or tablet. You will always remain anonymous and you may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest. Your information will be forwarded to law enforcement for follow up. If an arrest is made based on your tip, you are eligible for a cash reward of up to $3,000.