On January 3, 2023 three members of the Polk County Fire Rescue received Sheriff Commendations from Grady Judd. The three assisted Deputy Darell Turner with a combative domestic abuse suspect.
On December 3, 2022, Deputy Sheriff Darrell Turner responded to Amick Loop in Lakeland in reference to a domestic battery call for service. Upon his arrival, a female was located lying on her side in the driveway, very intoxicated and having difficulty breathing. Members of Polk County Fire Rescue arrived on scene shortly after and began medically evaluating the female.
While members of Polk County Fire Rescue tended to the female, Deputy Sheriff Turner conducted his investigation. Through the investigation, Deputy Sheriff Turner determined the suspect, Brian Martinez, committed the offense of Battery – Domestic Violence. Deputy Sheriff Turner attempted to place Martinez under arrest, however, he became uncooperative and combative.
Deputy Sheriff Turner directed Martinez to the ground where a struggle ensued as Deputy Sheriff Turner attempted to handcuff Martinez. During the struggle, Martinez was able to free his right hand and began striking Deputy Sheriff Turner several times in the back of his head.
Upon seeing the struggle, Captain David Long, Firefighter Akem Poleon, and Firefighter Timothy Green immediately responded to assist Deputy Sheriff Turner. While assisting Deputy Sheriff Turner, Firefighters Green and Poleon were struck several times by Martinez. Despite Martinez’s violent actions, the assistance allowed Deputy Sheriff Turner to handcuff Martinez and safely place him in his patrol vehicle.
“Thanks to your willingness to aid Deputy Sheriff Turner, without concern for your own personal safety and well-being, this violent felon was taken into custody without serious injury to anyone on scene. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office values the partnership with Polk County Fire Rescue and deeply appreciates your actions to assist Deputy Sheriff Turner.” – Grady Judd
On behalf of the men and women of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of Polk County, I commend you for a job well done.
