Polk deputy Arrested - Charged with engaging in a romantic relationship with a student, tampering with evidence, and unlawful use of a two-way communication device.
Polk deputy Arrested - According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, 29-year-old Skylar Lamar Bush was arrested on April 28, 2026. He is charged with engaging in a romantic relationship with a student, tampering with evidence, and unlawful use of a two-way communication device. The case came to light when another cadet reported suspicious interactions between Bush and a 16-year-old participant in the program. That tip prompted an immediate investigation. Detectives later spoke with the teen, who confirmed the communications and described some of the messages as unusual and concerning.
Investigators say the messages went beyond professional boundaries. In some exchanges, Bush allegedly expressed strong personal feelings toward the minor, including statements about being in love and wanting a future with her.
During an interview with detectives, Bush admitted to becoming emotionally involved with the cadet. Authorities say he also acknowledged deleting messages and telling the teen to do the same, actions that led to additional charges related to evidence tampering.
Sheriff Grady Judd addressed the case publicly, calling the behavior unacceptable and describing it as an attempt to groom the minor. He noted that, at this stage of the investigation, there is no indication that the relationship became physical, but detectives are continuing to review the case.
Bush, who had been working as an advisor within the cadet program, resigned from his position during the investigation. Officials stated that termination would have followed had he not stepped down.
The sheriff’s office is urging anyone who may have had similar interactions or additional information to contact investigators as the case remains active.
