Polk State Criminal Justice grad honors slain father with career in law enforcement

Nelson Medina walked the graduation stage with Polk State College’s 134th class on April 30 to receive his Associate in Science in Criminal Justice – a moment dedicated to his father, who was murdered in Lakeland when Medina was only 8 years old.

The crime devastated his family, but Medina has used his grief to fuel a meaningful career in law enforcement.

“I always remember feeling a sense of appreciation toward the deputies for catching the bad guys. The reassurance and professionalism shown by the law enforcement officers working the case brought us comfort during this difficult time,” he shared.

“That experience ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in law enforcement so I could serve and support others in their most difficult moments.”

Now 41, Medina has had an accomplished 10-year career and currently serves as a detention deputy with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. The completion of his degree provides him with the opportunity to be promoted within his agency.

“Polk State College has given me the tools necessary to reach my goals,” he said. “It prepares you for the real world and sets you up for success.”

In 2015, Medina enrolled in the Polk State Kenneth C. Thompson Institute of Public Safety (KCTIPS) dual law enforcement academy and joined the Polk County Sheriff’s Office the next year.

“The facility was top-notch and the teachers and trainers were top-notch,” he shared of his time in the academy. “The hands-on training and the scenario-based training helped us prepare for our futures in law enforcement.”

In 2019, he received a lifesaving medal from Polk Sheriff Grady Judd and was a finalist for Deputy Sheriff of the Year. During his time with Polk County, he worked in corrections, patrol and as a detective.

When he joined the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in 2023, he decided it was time to get his degree.

“Polk State offers many classes, different times and online options that work well with work schedules,” Medina explained. “What I have learned in the Criminal Justice Program is going to allow me to better serve my community. It’s been a great experience and an honor to be able to protect my community.”

Medina’s wife, mom and sister cheered him on at graduation.

“My dad would be proud of me at this moment because this was all inspired by him,” Medina said. “I have been able to achieve success with his name, and that means a lot to my family and me.”