Wauchula Police Department

05/14/2026

Chief Curtis and the Wauchula Police Department was honored to attend the Hardee County Chamber of Commerce Sunrise Social hosted by the City of Wauchula.

It was a great opportunity to connect with members of our community and local leaders while representing the City of Wauchula. We would also like to thank Hardee County Supervisor of Elections Diane Smith for taking the time to meet with our officers.

We appreciate the continued support and partnership from our community!

05/09/2026

05/06/2026

Modified Phase III "Extreme" Water Shortage Restrictions Begin April 3Always refer to your city or county regulations first.

05/01/2026

This morning, the Hardee County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a person that reported that he was armed and was depressed at Advent Health in Wauchula. The Wauchula Police Department and the Hardee County Sheriff’s Office responded immediately and the hospital was locked down. A combined effort from the WPD Officers and Sheriff’s Deputies conducted a full sweep of the entire property and surrounding properties ensuring the safety of all hospital staff and citizens. No subject was located on the premises matching the description given.

The Wauchula Police Department, in coordination with the Hardee County Sheriff’s Office, are actively following up on leads at this time and this is an on-going investigation. We take all threats seriously and will pursue formal charges on anyone that make a false threat. Protecting our community is our top priority and we do not take threats lightly.

If anyone has any information concerning this incident or any other crime, please call the Wauchula Police Department at 863-773-3265. You can remain anonymous and any assistance is greatly appreciated.

We would like to thank the Hardee County Sheriff’s Office for the quick response and assistance to our officers, and the hospital security and staff of Advent Health Wauchula. Your commitment to the safety and well being of our community does not go unnoticed.

04/24/2026

Chief Curtis and the Wauchula Police Department would like to extend a sincere thank you to Wauchula Walmart for their generous donations in support of our raffle at the Hardee Senior High Career Day event.

Your continued support helps us engage with our youth and strengthen our community. We truly appreciate your partnership!

Congratulations to all of our raffle winners! 🎉

04/19/2026

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfaJsPXy8CQ&list=PL2GlXO1j4M700HfkHTQ6OFzI2OXo7rUUl

If you feel different, you drive different. Drive high, get a DUI. It’s that simple.

04/17/2026

This week, the Wauchula Police Department proudly recognizes and honors the incredible dispatchers of the Hardee County Sheriff’s Office during Public Safety Telecommunications Week.

These dedicated professionals are the calm voice in moments of chaos, the lifeline between our community and first responders, and the unseen heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes 24/7. Their quick thinking, professionalism, and compassion help save lives every single day.

We are grateful for your commitment, your strength under pressure, and your unwavering support of law enforcement and our community.

Thank you for all that you do—you are truly the first, first responders. 💛🚓📞

04/13/2026

These canines were found running at large over the weekend.

They were taken to the Hardee County Animal Control Services located on Airport Road. Please call 863-773-2320 for more information.

04/03/2026

In 2023, there were 3,275 people killed and nearly 325,000 people injured in traffic crashes involving distracted drivers. Consider these tips for safe driving:

If you have to text, pull over to a safe location and park your car — only then should you read or send the text message.

Distracted driving isn’t just texting, scrolling through social media or messaging while driving is distracted driving too.

*Appoint your passenger as the “designated texter” to respond to calls or messages.
*Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, silence notifications, or put your phone away in the trunk so you won't be tempted to respond.
*Speak up if you see someone texting and driving and ask them to put their phone away.

04/02/2026

On 04-01-26, while on patrol, Officer Perdue—who is new to the Wauchula Police Department—noticed a few ladies on the side of the road attempting to change a flat tire. Without hesitation, he stepped in and took care of it for them.

The ladies were extremely grateful for the assistance, and we’re proud to have officers like Officer Perdue who go above and beyond to serve our community—no matter how big or small the call may be. 💙🚓