Sheriff Grady Judd announced the results of a massive multi-agency undercover operation titled “Polk Around and Find Out” on May 1 and 2, 2026. The sting resulted in 266 arrests related to human trafficking, child predators, and prostitution.
During the press conference, Judd specifically highlighted several high-profile suspects, using his signature blunt style to comment on their backgrounds.
The “MAGA Influencer” Arrest
One of the most discussed moments involved Craig Long, a self-described “MAGA influencer” from Tampa. Long was arrested for soliciting a prostitute.
- The Context: Judd displayed a photograph showing Long alongside President Donald Trump and Donald Trump Jr., noting that Long often posted content with high-profile political figures.
- The “Influence That” Quote: Judd remarked on Long’s previous criminal history, noting he was a felon who had supposedly “straightened up” to become an influencer. Judd concluded his segment on Long by saying, “Well, there you go, you got arrested in the human trafficking sting. Influence that for a while.“
Other Notable Arrests
The operation also snagged other individuals who drew significant media attention:
- Ryan Yates: A 40-year-old from Holiday, Florida, who was previously convicted for his involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot. He was arrested on prostitution-related charges. Judd noted that while Yates may have received a federal pardon for his previous actions, “he didn’t get a blanket pardon” for violating the law in Polk County.
- Thomas Allen Hicks: A 68-year-old man well-known in the Lakeland community for portraying Santa Claus at major local events, including the Christmas Parade. He was charged with traveling to meet a minor for sex after allegedly arranging a meeting with an undercover deputy posing as a 13-year-old girl.
Operation Statistics
The overall operation involved several agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
| Category | Count |
| Total Arrests | 266 |
| Human Trafficking/Prostitution Related | 247 |
| Child Predator Felonies | 19 |
| Total Previous Charges (Combined) | 1,028 |
| Identified Human Trafficking Victims | 7 |
Judd emphasized that of the 266 arrested, 167 were from outside Polk County, and 34 were in the country illegally. He reiterated that the goal of these operations is to identify and rescue victims while holding those who fuel the demand accountable.
Birds of a feather flock together.