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.

Apr 16, 2026

PCSO arrests man for attack with a golf club in Lake Wales

Media Contact: Brian Bruchey

On Wednesday, April 15, 2026, PCSO deputies responded to the area of Myrtle Avenue and State Road 60 in Lake Wales, after it was reported that a man attacked an acquaintance with a golf club.

The suspect was identified as 54-year old Reuben "Buddy" Free, III of Lake Wales.

According to the investigation, the victim was asleep in his residence when he was awakened by being hit approximately five times with a golf club.

The victim and witnesses reported that prior to the attack, Free had accused him of being involved with Free's ex-girlfriend.

Witnesses intervened and took the golf club away from Free.

Deputies later made contact with Free, but he refused to speak with them about the incident.

The victim possibly suffered broken bones during the attack and he was transported to the hospital.

Reuben "Buddy" Free was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon (F2).