Linden police officer saves man’s life

A Linden police officer has been nominated for a life-saving award after heroically saving a man’s life during a traffic stop. According to a release on social media on January 18, Chief David Dulude recognized Sgt William Denison for performing CPR that ultimately ended up saving a man’s life.

According to the report, “Last night we had a great reminder of how important it is to be flexible, calm and ready to react to unforeseen situations that arise on what we think are ‘normal’ calls. Everyone searched for work to do without being directed or told. Sgt Denison went right into evaluating and chest compressions. Deputy Martinez, knowing how tiring doing correct form chest compressions can be, positioned himself to assist when needed. Officer Graham went and retrieved his med bag and AED while I communicated with dispatch requesting LifeNet and updates.”

Dulude noted that it started when a call came in of a reckless driver. When the stop was made at EZ mart, Sgt Denison approached the vehicle and got the driver out. “It was very apparent that he could have been intoxicated. Once the individual was pulled to the back of the car, he began having his medical episode.”

Dulude also noted that to be able to make that switch from enforcement action to life-saving action was extremely commendable; not letting “the preconceived judgment of the initial call slow your transition.”

The chief also reported to the Journal-Sun that four other officers were there ready to work as a team In case Denison needed assistance. “Communication with each other and dispatch is crucial.”

Lifenet then arrived on the scene and took over the situation. “The quick thinking and action of our officers saved this man’s life,” said Dulude.