
Sheriff Arnold Lanier
PRESS RELEASE
FEBRUARY 17, 2009

For More Information, Call:
Colonel Claude Harris
(863) 773-0304 ext. 217
FAX (863) 773-4593
LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSISTANCE FOR LOCKED VEHICLES
The Hardee County Sheriff’s Office is announcing that beginning March 1st. 2009
the agency, except in life threatening emergencies will no longer unlock
vehicles. We are discontinuing the service due to the increased liability and
workload on Sheriff’s Office staff. As locking systems become more complex
updated tools are required and there is the potential of damaging sensitive
electronics or wiring.
A few suggested precautions citizens can take to be prepared in the event keys
are lost or locked in a vehicle:
1. Keep spare keys in your purse or wallet.
2. Have spare keys at your home or office.
3. Hide a spare key on your vehicle.
4. Store phone numbers in your cell phones such as Roadside Assistance Clubs,
Locksmiths, Tow services, Dealerships or Auto Repair shops.