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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 Alicia Manautou. 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.
Jan 23, 2017
Third Annual "Jeepin' With Sheriff Judd" Charity Event Set for February 17-19, 2017
Media Contact: Carrie Horstman, PIO
The third annual "Jeepin' with Sheriff Judd" Jeep charity event will be held Friday through Sunday, February 17-19, 2017, at Clear Springs Ranch off of Cox Road in Bartow.
The public is invited to join Sheriff Judd, PCSO members, and our many gracious sponsors and vendors at this charity event - all proceeds raised will go to Polk Sheriff's Charities, Inc.
This year a 2012 Jeep Wrangler was donated to the charity by Kelley GMC in Bartow and will be raffled for just $20 a ticket. Only 2,000 tickets will be sold! The drawing will be held on Sunday, February 19, 2017. Visit our website www.jeepinwithjudd.com, and like us on Facebook!
Spectators are free and the whole family is welcome to attend! There will be bounce houses and activities for the kids, food and merchandise vendors, and great raffle prizes, including the 2012 Jeep Wrangler! We will have overnight camping again this year, for $20.00 per night.
Last year, there were 1,039 Jeeps at this event, and over 3,500 people in attendance; 170 volunteers donated their time, helping raise $95,000 for Polk Sheriff's Charities, Inc.
WHEN: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, February 17-19, 2017
COST: Pre-registration is $60.00, which covers everyone in your Jeep, trail rides, and access to the obstacle course. The deadline for pre-registration is February 8, 2017. After February 8th, registration costs $80.00. All participants will be required to complete a waiver prior to access to the course and rides. Spectators are free - everyone is welcome to attend!
Click here for more information or to register online or email jeepinwithjudd@gmail.com.
We hope to see you there! Media representatives - video and photo opportunities will be made available. Please contact a PIO for assistance.