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Welcome from

Sheriff Grady Judd

Welcome to the Polk County Sheriff's Office Website. We are happy to provide this site as a resource for use by members of the Polk County Sheriff's Office, the media, and the public. By following us on the Internet, you can help make Polk County a safer place to live from the comfort of your living room. Check in often. And, if you need us - call us. We will always answer the call.

 

 

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News & Events

Stay Up To Date With The Polk County Sheriff’s Office

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always looking out for our community

Crime Stoppers

SOLVED! Wallet theft at Polk Pick & Pay in Lakeland

Aug 30, 2020
Media Contact : Brian Bruchey, PIO

***UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 9TH***
The Polk County Sheriff's Office has made two arrests in this case. Thanks to several tipsters, the man in the video has been identified as Ben French of Lakeland. French and his buddy, Charles Atkinson were both arrested after they worked together in the crime. And both men were charged with Petit Theft, Possession of Another's ID, Keeping Stolen Property (a misdemeanor and two felonies). 

ORIGINAL POST FOLLOWS:

On August 30th at about 2 pm, a man paid for a purchase he made at Polk Pick & Pay (7623 Hwy 98 North) in Lakeland. While doing so, he inadvertently left his wallet sitting on the counter. He didn't realize his mistake until he reached his next destination.

Security video from the store showed the wallet sitting where the man left his wallet. It also showed another man taking the wallet.

Losers weepers-Finders keepers is not a Florida law. Intentionally depriving someone of their property is. The man in the security video stealthily grabbed the wallet and placed it in his pocket. He could have turned it over to store management, or he could have contacted a deputy. He did neither.

The Polk County Sheriff's Office is hoping someone who recognizes this man will come forward and identify him.

If you recognize him, please contact Detective T. Wright at 863-577-1626. Or to remain anonymous, contact Heartland Crime Stoppers - call 1-800-226 TIPS (8477), visit www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on "Submit A Tip," or download the free "P3tips" app on your smartphone or tablet.Ben French MUGSHOTSuspect photo

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