Recently, the lettering, Donald J. Hill Training Room, was removed from the wall in the new Polk County Law Enforcement facility. The person, or persons, involved in the removing of the letters did so of their own accord and without the knowledge or authorization of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Tim Wright or any member of the Polk County Board of Commissioners.

 

In late 2018, the Polk County Board of Commissioners signed a proclamation dedicating the training room to then Sheriff Donald Hill. 

 

Sheriff Wright sent out a statement on Saturday regarding the removal of the lettering.

 

“It was brought to my attention on Wednesday, July 24, that the lettering on the wall of the Donald J. Hill Training Room at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office has been removed. I, Sheriff Wright, did not order the removal nor do I condone the act of the removal without permission from myself, or a county official.” commented Sheriff Wright.

 

He went on to say, “Permission would have never been granted for such a disrespectful act and I would not have approved it. I am currently investigating who took it upon themselves to remove the lettering and will hold the individual or individuals accountable. To avoid any such act being committed in the future, we are installing a plaque that commemorates the dedication of the training room. I assure you that I do not take this situation lightly and will not tolerate this type of behavior from any member of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office or anyone with granted access to the facility. I would like to apologize to Donald Hill, the County Manager, the Polk County Commissioners and the citizens of Polk County for this unacceptable and reprehensible act”.

 

County Commissioner Tommy Melton also responded Saturday saying, “I have not been to the new jail recently. I know that we have ordered a plaque for the room.”

 

A plaque has been ordered for the training room. No word yet on whether the lettering will be replaced.

 

An investigation is currently ongoing.