In Memory of Deputy Sheriff Christopher Broadhead

On Monday, August 23, 2021, Florida authorities came forward for the fifth time in less than a week to announce the loss of a local law enforcement officer. COVID19 is ravaging the state. Deputy Sheriff Christopher Broadhead, age 32, passes away due to complications resulting from contracting COVID. His death, like other law enforcement, has been ruled a line-of-duty death.

Deputy Broadhead had committed his life to civil service. Broadhead graduated from the University of Florida. He joined the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) in November 2011. His initial duty was an assignment working patrol. During his ten years with the department, Broadhead had many promotions allowing him to work in many areas. He worked as a property crimes detective, robbery detective, and then a homicide detective—his last assignment in the Lake Wales area at the Southeast District.

Today, COVID is rampant in Polk County. Deputy Broadhead is the first officer who has passed away from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. At the time of his death, four other deputies from the department remain hospitalized for the coronavirus, and more than 50 deputies are currently testing positive and under quarantine.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office

Deputy Broadhead had chosen to serve with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. PCSO is headquartered in Winter Haven, Florida. The PCSO currently employs nearly 683 sworn officers and approximately 675 civilians. While on patrol, deputies cover and provide services to more than 2,010 square miles.

The department provides law enforcement services to all unincorporated areas of the county and six municipalities that contract their services. In addition, the PCSO offers many benefits to the region through its dispatch center. The dispatch center includes calls for law enforcement, fire rescue, emergency medical services, courthouse security, and courtroom services. They also provide for the operations of both the Central County and South County Jails, central booking, and assist with inmate transportation.

Remembrances

Deputy Sheriff Christopher Broadhead leaves behind his wife and five children. His wife, Elisa Broadhead, is a former deputy. Law enforcement, neighbors, and extended family are currently planning for full honors at the memorial service.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office posted the following announcement on their social media feeds. “Deputy Broadhead received many accolades throughout his 10-year career – he was awarded a Medal of Valor in 2013, several division and department commendations, a Sheriff’s Commendation, and Meritorious Service Medal in 2017. RIP Chris. We’ve got the watch. We love you and already miss you.”

Palm Garden HealthCare Center posted shared condolences on their Twitter page. “We are saddened to learn of this loss. Thank you, Deputy Sheriff Christopher Broadhead, for your service to our community. Our residents, guests, and team members will pray in your memory for your family, friends, and loved ones. Heartbreaking.”

Miami-Dade Police Department felt the pain along with their fellow officers. They shared their condolences on social media. “We express our deepest condolences to our friends at the @PolkCoSheriff during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and colleagues of Deputy Sheriff Christopher Broadhead.”