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.

Jul 9, 2020

PCSO Welcomes New Public Information Officer

Media Contact: Alicia Manautou, PIO

On Monday, June 29, 2020, Alicia Manautou transferred to the Polk County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer position that was vacated by Sherrie Morgan in May 2019. Alicia began her career at the Sheriff's Officer in 2011 assigned to the Department of Detention. She also served as a Crime Prevention Specialist before transferring to the position of Aide to the Sheriff in 2013. A native Polk Countian, Alicia brings a unique perspective and many valuable skills to her new role as PIO.

Alicia has worked closely with top law enforcement leaders across the state and nation as the PCSO liaison for the Florida Sheriffs Association and the Major County Sheriffs of America, where Sheriff Judd served as President. Alicia is a graduate of Haines City High School. She also has a Bachelor's degree from Warner University and holds a Public Manager Certification from Florida State University.

Alicia can be reached via email at amanautou@polksheriff.org or in her office at 863-298-6631.