News and Investigations

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is now offering a huge sign-on bonus for experienced law enforcement officers. And by “huge” we mean $20,000! 

Here is everything you need to know:
• The first $10,000 will be paid upon successful completion of the STEP (Street Training Evaluation Program).  
• The remaining $10,000 will be paid upon successful completion of their initial probation. 
• Recipient must contractually commit to three year’s employment upon completion of STEP or must reimburse the full amount paid.
• This sign-on bonus opportunity is available to the first 50 sworn law enforcement officers who are selected.

Requirements:
• Must meet all hiring requirements of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.  The polygraph, psychological, and the physical agility test (PAT) will be waived if applicant is actively employed as a full-time law enforcement officer with another law enforcement agency in good standing.
• Successful completion of basic recruit training at a certified Police Academy and possess a current certification from the State of Florida as a Law Enforcement Officer as described under Chapter 943, Florida Statutes (F.S.).
• Must have a minimum of one year of law enforcement experience after release from a field training program.

The following are excluded from the current sign-on bonus:
• PCSO Members who resign on or after April 15, 2025.
• Active PCSO full or part-time members as of April 15, 2025.
• Current academy recruits who are being sponsored by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
Salary Details:  Candidates with less than three (3) years of full-time law enforcement experience will start at a base salary of $62,993.  Additional salary compensation for previous full-time law enforcement experience will be available for those with 36 months or more of experience.  

Other benefits offered:
*Excellent health insurance
*FRS retirement
*Variety of career paths and assignments
*Education incentives (FDLE - up to $130/mo.)
*PCSO incentive - Master’s degree of $600/yr
*Tuition reimbursement (upon employment)     
*Take home vehicle         
*Paid Time Off
*Supportive community with engaged leaders                   
*Family atmosphere
*State of art equipment provided                           
*In-service and advanced training opportunities