Imlay City Officer honored with life-saving certificate

Quick actions saves life of 55-year old Imlay City man

 

IMLAY CITY — During the August 5 City Commission meeting, an officer with the Imlay City police department was recognized for his heroic efforts earlier this year.

Hours of training and certification paid off for Officer Robert Velasco in June when he performed life-saving efforts with an AED to save the life of an Imlay City man.

Officer Velasco, and emergency workers with Lapeer County EMS worked together to help save the man’s life.

Chief Brett Selby presented the officer with a special commendation during the meeting.

A certificate presented to Officer Velasco reads, “On Sunday June 15 (Father’s Day) at approximately 3:10 hours, in the 400 block of W. First St. in Imlay City, a 55-year old Imlay City man was reportedly having a cardiac arrest, unconscious and not breathing in his home. Within minutes, Officer Robert Velasco arrived at the home as the first responder and quickly deployed the A.E.D. (Automatic External Defibrillator) on the resident. Officer Velasco prepared the patient with the AED set-up and delivered one shock as requested by the AED. The shock immediately restored a heartbeat rhythm to the patient and Officer Velasco stabilized the man until Lapeer County EMS arrived.”

The recognition went on to say, “Upon arrival of EMS, the paramedic crew then prepared one additional AED shock, rendered further first aid and prepped the man for transportation to McLaren Regional Hospital in Lapeer.”

In conclusion, the certificate read, “The 55-year old Imlay City man is alive today to enjoy life with his family because of the quick response, training and professionalism Officer Velasco exhibited on June 15. The family, residents, city and police department are grateful and proud of the quick action Officer Velasco demonstrated on that day.”

Mayor Barbara Yockey, on behalf of the city commission and the community, thanked the Officer for his quick response and efforts.

He received a standing ovation from the crowd, while accepting the certificate.

City Commission members had high praise for the city’s emergency services departments and thanked everyone for their dedication to helping keep the community safe.