Our Mission

The mission of the Lake Wales Police Department is to prevent crime, enforce the law, and provide the highest quality service to our community. Working together, we will build partnerships for a safer community, and improve the quality of life for those we serve.

About the Department

The City of Lake Wales Police Department is a full-service law enforcement agency dedicated to a philosophy of community policing and providing quality, accountable and professional services to our residents. The Lake Wales Police Department was established in 1917 when the Charter of Incorporation was granted by the Florida Legislature. A town Marshall was commissioned to preserve the peace and ensure the safety of the 250 town residents. Since then the Lake Wales Police Department has been widely recognized for its commitment to quality professional and accountable law enforcement service. Today, 48 law enforcement officers, 7 civilian members and 10 volunteer members preserve the peace and ensure the safety of approximately 17,000 city residents.

Statement of Values

Quality - We will deliver high quality and efficient law enforcement service to the community. We will develop partnerships with citizens to resolve problems and improve the quality of life for our residents.
Accountability - We will treat every citizen with respect, dignity and compassion. We will strive to prevent crime while being sensitive to victims of crime and relentlessly pursuing those who violate the law. We will be accountable for our actions.
Professionalism - We are professionals who place the highest priority on protecting human life and individual rights. We are dedicated to training, self discipline and officer development. We will facilitate positive relationships to develop mutual trust and respect.