Bartow Police Chief To Lead Polk County Police Chief's Association

BARTOW, FL — Bartow Chief of Police Bryan S. Dorman was selected to head the Polk County Police Chief's Association for 2023. Dorman served as the vice president of the organization under the leadership of Lakeland Chief Ruben Garcia (retired) last year.

Dorman was sworn in as president of the association by Sheriff Grady Judd during the 40th Polk County Police Chief's Association Annual Installation of Officers and Awards Ceremony held at Idlewood event venue in Bartow. There were more than 100 law enforcement professionals and their families in attendance. Several members of local law enforcement agencies were recognized during the ceremony for their courage and hard work.

"I am so excited to lead such a great group of law enforcement leaders from Polk County. I am humbled and honored to be their voice at the state level. I look forward to working with all of the chiefs and Sheriff Judd to ensure we are providing the most professional police services to all of Polk County. I would like to congratulate all of those recognized for their hard work and courage this year. Job well done," said Dorman.

During his presidency, Dorman said he wants to use the platform to ensure all Polk County law enforcement members have access to holistic officer wellness programs, specifically mental health.

"During the next year, my focus will be on presenting ideas from industry experts on ways we as law enforcement leaders can support the psychological well-being of our staff and their families. Our job as leaders is not to do their job. Our job as leaders is to make sure they have all the tools they need to be successful police officers, which includes tools to cope with stress and the awful things they see during the course of their career," said Dorman.

Dorman began his career with the Bartow Police Department in 1998 when he was only 20 years old. Dorman served in multiple leadership and supervisory roles throughout his career. He has a master's degree in business administration and in criminal justice management from Webber International University and a bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida.

In addition to being president of the Polk County Police Chief's Association, Dorman also serves as the District 15 director of the Florida Police Chief's Association which serves both Polk and Hillsborough counties.

Dorman and his wife, Melinda, have three children.