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.

Sep 10, 2024

Polk County Sheriff’s Office investigating a fatal shooting in Lakeland; shooter arrested

Media Contact: Brian Bruchey, PIO

A Lakeland man was shot and killed at his residence on Fleming Avenue Tuesday morning, September 10, 2024.

The victim was identified as 32-year old Alfredo “Freddie” Alfaro-Astello.

Deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office were able to locate the suspect; he was identified as 38-year old Clinton “CJ” Robinson, Jr.

The deputies arrived at the scene at about 10:07 am following the report of gunshots. Upon their arrival, they found Mr. Alfaro-Astello deceased in the front yard.

PCSO Homicide detectives began their investigation and soon learned that witnesses saw Robinson approach the victim, heard multiple gunshots, saw smoke coming from a firearm held by Robinson, and heard him say, “How do you like me now?” as he walked away.

The two men are neighbors, and witnesses said that there have been prior arguments between the two.

“Detectives are still trying to determine what specifically lead this morning’s deadly interaction, and believe there may be more witnesses. Those who have any information about this murder, please contact homicide detectives at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 863-298-6200 or Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-888-400-TIPS.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff.

Deputies were able to locate Robinson and take him into custody. He is currently being interviewed at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Clinton "CJ" Robinson has been charged with: 1st Degree Murder (FC-no bond), Tampering with Evidence (F3-no bond), False Report to LEO in Capital Offense Investigation (F3-no bond), Possession of Fentanyl (F3-$5,000 bond), Possession of Marijuana (M1-$1,000 bond), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia(M1-$1,000 bond). He remains in the Polk County Jail.