On Wednesday, June 5, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and Sheriff’s Office personnel, Sheriff Mark Hunter awarded Deputy Benjamin Dupree, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Lifesaving Medal for his actions on February 26, 2019.
Deputy Dupree responded to a call involving an adult male having a significant cardiac event and he was no longer breathing. Being first on scene, Deputy Dupree began CPR on the male until relieved by EMS personnel.
The male was air lifted to a Gainesville hospital and after his hospitalization; he has recovered and is doing well.
This was Deputy Dupree’s first time performing CPR in a non-training scenario and his quick actions proved critical to this patient’s survival.
“I’m so proud of Deputy Dupree and all the employees at the Sheriff’s Office that work day in and day out to help our community”. Sheriff Mark Hunter said, “Deputy Dupree’s dedication and professionalism not only saved a life, but serves as a great example to our community of the benefit of a well-trained agency.”
