Officer Saves Newborn on Sandy Plains Road in Cobb County, GA

A Cobb County police officer saved a newborn not breathing after a roadside delivery on Sandy Plains Road, GA. Read the full heroic story.

by Admin

Feb 27, 2026

Cobb County Police Department officer, Officer William DeSaussure, and a happy family with their newborn rescued by a Georgia officer.

On a typical Thursday in East Cobb, GA, a routine afternoon took a dramatic turn that would change a family's life forever. Officer William DeSaussure was in the middle of a standard traffic stop on Sandy Plains Road near Whitlock Road when he was approached by a driver in visible distress. The man explained that his wife was in active labor and they were not going to reach the hospital in time. Without hesitation, the officer shifted from his current task to provide immediate roadside assistance to the family in need.

Life Saving Actions During a Roadside Delivery

By the time the officer reached the vehicle, the situation had escalated from a medical emergency to a life-threatening crisis. The woman had already completed a roadside delivery, but the newborn infant was not breathing. Drawing on his training, Officer DeSaussure immediately began providing an emergency medical response. With the steady guidance of a Cobb County 911 dispatcher over the radio, the officer began performing chest compressions on the tiny infant.

A Breath of Life in Cobb County, GA

The tension on the scene was palpable as the officer continued the newborn resuscitation efforts. After several focused compressions, the baby finally began to breathe on its own. This display of police bravery and skill ensured the child survived those first critical moments of life. Soon after, members of Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services arrived on the scene to take over medical care. They transported both the mother and the newborn to a local hospital for further evaluation, where they were later reported to be in good health.

Community Gratitude and Successful Outcomes

The Cobb County Police Department later shared that both the mother and baby have been released from the hospital and are doing wonderfully. The Preston family expressed their deep appreciation for the officer's actions, even sharing a heartwarming photo of their new addition. This incident serves as a powerful example of law enforcement community service, proving that officers are prepared for any scenario. The department noted that Officer DeSaussure was truly in the right place at the right time, and his police compassion helped a new life enter the world safely.

Reflections on the Human Side of Policing

This incredible story reminds us that behind every badge is a person dedicated to the safety and well-being of their neighbors. These proactive acts of kindness and skill are what truly define the police and community bond. When a police officer goes above and beyond, it creates a ripple effect of trust and gratitude that strengthens the entire region. We are honored to share such positive police stories that highlight the vital role of our first responders.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What training do officers receive for medical emergencies?

Most law enforcement agencies require officers to be certified in basic life support and CPR. This training allows them to provide an immediate emergency medical response before paramedics arrive on the scene. Officers often refresh these skills annually to ensure they can handle high-stress situations like a roadside birth or respiratory failure.

2. How does a dispatcher assist during a roadside birth?

A 911 dispatcher is trained to provide step-by-step medical instructions over the phone. In cases of an emergency delivery, they guide the person on the scene through clearing the baby’s airway and checking for a pulse. This telephonic support is a crucial link in the chain of survival for the patient.

3. What should I do if I have a medical emergency while driving?

If you cannot make it to a hospital, pull over to a safe location and call 911 immediately. If you see a police officer or other first responder, signal them for roadside assistance. Providing your exact location or nearby landmarks helps emergency services find you faster.

4. Are police cars equipped with medical supplies?

Yes, most patrol vehicles carry an individual first aid kit (IFAK) and often an automated external defibrillator (AED). While they may not have specialized equipment for newborn resuscitation, officers carry the essential tools needed to stabilize a patient until emergency services can arrive with an ambulance.

5. Why is infant CPR different from adult CPR?

When performing infant cpr, the technique is much more delicate to avoid injuring the baby’s smaller frame. It typically involves using only two fingers for chest compressions and very gentle breaths. This specialized training is vital for protecting infant health during a crisis where a baby is not breathing.

6. What is the protocol when an infant is not breathing at birth?

The immediate priority is to clear the airway and stimulate the baby. If the infant is not breathing, a first responder will begin tactile stimulation or compressions as taught in newborn resuscitation protocols. These actions are designed to jumpstart the baby’s respiratory system in the first few moments of life.