WPD

The Wauchula Police Department works to maintain peace and order, protect lives and property, and apprehend accused and suspected criminals. Its criminal investigation unit handles issues related to personal crime and narcotics investigations. The department operates a patrol division that employs more than 10 full- and part-time officers and enforces traffic laws. The Wauchula Police Department also maintains traffic, homicide, bike, K-9, training and animal control units. It supports the school crossing guard program that ensures safe gaps in traffic and helps children cross streets safely. The department s animal control division provides protection and adoption of stray and restrained animals and handles cases related to the cruelty of animals. The Wauchula Police Department also hosts a victim advocate program that assists the victims of crime and traumatic incidents. It is located in Wauchula, Fla.

The Hardee County Sheriff's Office is the law enforcement branch of the county government. One of the primary objectives of the sheriff's office is to provide a safe, secure community environment for all residents. The sheriff's office serves the community by protecting life and property, preserving peace and order, preventing and detecting crime, managing the county jail, enforcing all laws and ordinances and promoting the safe, efficient use of the county's streets and highways. The Hardee County Sheriff's Office consists of many specialized divisions, including criminal investigations, narcotics investigations, SWAT, uniform patrol, crime scene, warrants, civil and the corrections or jail division. The mission of the Hardee County Sheriff's Office is to enhance the quality of life in Hardee County by working cooperatively with the public and within the frame work of the United States Constitution to enforce the laws, preserve the peace, reduce fear and provide for a safe environment. Located in Wauchula, Fla., Hardee County Sheriff is a government-owned company that employs nearly 125 people.