Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman presented several awards for Life Saving on Thursday.

Deputy Edward C. Hyde received the Life Saving Award for his actions while on official travel for the agency with Deputy Jeremy Barr. The two were traveling to pick up explosives in Arkansas for the Hazardous Devices Unit. Making a quick stop for breakfast, Hyde noticed that Barr could no longer speak. Hyde quickly assessed that Barr could not breathe and correctly administered abdominal thrusts, dislodging food, and clearing his airway. Because of Hyde’s quick action, correct application, and calm demeanor, he was able to change this life-threatening situation into a life-saving one.

Sergeant Jesse V. Gieseke received the Life Saving Award for his quick action while off-duty and working out at a local gym. Gieseke observed a crowd gathering at the gym and an elderly male subject on the floor. The victim was unresponsive, and someone in the group had called EMS. Gieseke took control of the situation without hesitation and began CPR compressions until paramedics arrived and relieved him. When contacted later, the victim was recovering. Gieseke’s actions were determined to have been critical in preserving the victim’s life.

Sergeant James C. Darby and Deputy Gregory W. Norton received the Life Saving Award for responding to a call about an unconscious 38-year-old female suffering from a fentanyl overdose. Upon arrival, the victim was not conscious or breathing. Norton administered two naloxone doses and began chest compressions. Darby arrived with another dose of Naloxone. The Sarasota County Fire Department (SCFD) arrived, and a paramedic administered a third Naloxone dose. Norton continued a third round of compressions while Darby connected his defibrillator to the victim. A heartbeat was detected, and the use of the defibrillator was unnecessary. SCFD then took over life-saving procedures. Sergeant Darby and Deputy Norton exhibited extraordinary merit and dedication to duty in the successful attempt to save the life of a citizen.

“The officers who perform these heroic acts are those who go above and beyond the call of duty,” said Sheriff Hoffman. “We are extremely proud of these individuals and grateful for their service.”