Franklin Township, NJ Officers Recognized for Lifesaving Actions

A 7-month-old child stopped breathing inside a home on Sidney School Road. Seconds mattered for the desperate family. Officer Kevin Richards arrived at the scene in less than two minutes. His decisive medical intervention transformed a terrifying crisis into a moment of relief.

Quick Response Saves a Choking Infant

On May 7, Officer Kevin Richards was dispatched to a Sidney School Road home following a report of a choking infant. Upon arrival, he found the parents holding their 7-month-old child in severe respiratory distress.

Richards immediately began back blows to clear the obstruction. The effort briefly improved the infant’s breathing. Moments later, the child stopped breathing entirely. Richards resumed lifesaving efforts without hesitation. After several additional back blows, the infant expelled the obstruction. The child began breathing and crying normally. Department officials noted that his quick actions prevented serious injury and likely saved the child’s life.

Medical Care at a Crash Scene

Months earlier, Officer Tyler Sutton faced a separate life-threatening crisis on Quakertown Road. On Feb. 19, Sutton responded to a report of an aggressive driver. While he was en route, the call was upgraded to a crash. Dispatch reports indicated the driver was unconscious.

At the scene, Sutton determined the driver was suffering a medical emergency. He immediately began lifesaving care, which included helping perform CPR. His rapid actions directly contributed to the driver making a full recovery. Both officers subsequently received official lifesaving recognition from the Franklin Township Police Department.

Standing Strong in Times of Crisis

Police Administrator John Insabella commended both officers for upholding the department's highest standards during these incidents. “Their ability to remain calm and act decisively under pressure reflects the professionalism and dedication we expect,” Insabella said. “We commend them for their outstanding service and commitment to protecting our community.”

Honoring First Responders Who Protect Our Communities

We hold deep admiration for the men and women who step into critical situations with calm resolve. Stories like these remind us of the vital role officers play as first responders in our everyday lives. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How are police officers trained to handle infant choking incidents?

Police officers undergo specialized emergency medical training to manage infant choking calls effectively. They learn precise physical techniques, such as targeted back blows, to safely clear blocked airways. This instruction ensures rapid, controlled care before medical personnel arrive.

2. What steps do officers take when responding to unconscious drivers?

When officers find an unconscious driver, they immediately assess vital signs and check for medical distress. If the driver is not breathing, officers begin CPR and use specialized equipment if available. They maintain critical life care until medical assistance takes over.

3. How fast do police officers typically arrive at medical calls?

Response times depend on patrol locations, traffic conditions, and local dispatch protocols. Officers are usually dispatched instantly as initial first responders to life-threatening emergencies. Their early arrival allows critical lifesaving care to begin within minutes.

4. Why do police officers receive lifesaving awards for medical calls?

Lifesaving awards honor officers whose direct physical intervention prevents loss of life during emergencies. Departments present these commendations after reviewing official incident reports and medical outcomes. The awards recognize exceptional composure, quick judgment, and dedicated service.

Sources:

• Story and Image Source: 2 Franklin officers credited with saving infant, driver | MyCentralJersey