Sheriff Crouch Recognizes Officers for Life-Saving Response

Several Sangamon County court security officers and a civilian were recognized during this week’s Sangamon County Board meeting for their actions that helped save the life of a woman who suffered a medical emergency inside the Sangamon County Building earlier this year.

Addressing the board, Sangamon County Sheriff Paula Crouch recounted the events of April 9, when Court Security Officer Nathan Hedrick was providing security in a courtroom on the sixth floor of the county building.

At approximately 10:20 a.m., Hedrick was alerted by bystanders that a woman had fallen near the elevators. When he arrived, he found Sharon James on the floor being assisted by civilian Jeffery Bone.

According to Crouch, James was experiencing shortness of breath, was unable to sit up on her own and was not responding coherently. Hedrick radioed for emergency medical services to respond.

Court Security Officers Alek Votava, Aubrey Kirkman and Enrique Ayala, along with Sgt. Ryan Kelly, responded to assist after hearing the call.

While officers assessed James’ condition, she lost consciousness.

Crouch said those on scene immediately began providing aid. Kirkman retrieved an automated external defibrillator from the building’s first floor while the others continued assessing James. After determining she did not have a pulse, CPR was initiated and the AED was applied.

The officers, along with Bone, continued lifesaving measures until medical personnel arrived and took over treatment before James was transported to the hospital.

During the meeting, Crouch said the actions of Bone and the responding officers contributed to James’ recovery.

To recognize their response, Crouch presented certificates of excellence to Jeffery Bone and Court Security Officers Nathan Hedrick, Alek Votava, Aubrey Kirkman and Enrique Ayala.

Crouch also told board members that members of the Sheriff’s Office later visited James at her home, where she expressed appreciation to those involved in her care.

“These individuals do a great job every single day keeping our courthouse secure and safe,” Crouch said. “They have large crowds and all walks of life, and I receive more compliments about our court security officers than anyone else. I really appreciate the everyday job they do.”