LAKELAND, Fla. - Update as of Sept. 3, 2025:

The Polk County Clerk of Court records confirm that the DUI charge was formerly dropped against Everett.

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A Polk County deputy has resigned following his arrest on a DUI charge while on duty, according to the sheriff's office.

Investigators say Joseph Everett, 27, showed signs of intoxication when he showed up for work Saturday morning.

Everett admitted to drinking three coffee mugs filled with whiskey Friday night and was arrested after failing a field sobriety test, PCSO said.

"If you lack the proper judgment when it comes to drinking and driving, you have no business working in law enforcement. We hold our deputies to a higher standard than the community, and he failed to meet that standard," Sheriff Grady Judd said

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