County Board Recognizes Court Security Officers and Civilian for Life-Saving Response

The Sangamon County Board recognized several members of the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office Court Security Division and a civilian during this week’s County Board meeting for their actions in responding to a medical emergency inside the Sangamon County Building earlier this year.

Sangamon County Sheriff Paula Crouch presented certificates of excellence to Court Security Officers Nathan Hedrick, Alex Votava, Aubrey Kirkman and Enrique Ayala, along with civilian Jeffery Bone, in recognition of their response on April 9.

At approximately 10:20 a.m. that day, Court Security Officer Nathan Hedrick was providing security in a courtroom on the sixth floor of the county building when he was alerted by bystanders that a woman had fallen near the elevators.

When Hedrick arrived, he found Sharon James on the floor being assisted by Jeffery Bone. James was experiencing a medical emergency and emergency medical services were requested.

After hearing the call for assistance, Court Security Officers Alex Votava, Aubrey Kirkman and Enrique Ayala, along with Sgt. Ryan Kelly, responded to the scene.

During the response, James lost consciousness. The team immediately began lifesaving measures. Officer Kirkman retrieved an automated external defibrillator while the others assessed James’ condition and initiated CPR. Officers and Bone continued providing care until emergency medical personnel arrived and assumed treatment.

James was transported for medical care and later recovered.

Sheriff Crouch said the quick actions taken by those involved played an important role in the outcome and recognized both their professionalism and compassion during the incident.

Following the incident, members of the Sheriff’s Office visited with James at her home. Although she was not originally expected to attend the meeting, James was present during the recognition and was acknowledged by the County Board.

Sheriff Crouch also recognized the ongoing work of the Court Security Division and thanked its members for their continued service in maintaining a safe and secure courthouse environment.

Sangamon County thanks Court Security Officers Nathan Hedrick, Alex Votava, Aubrey Kirkman and Enrique Ayala, Sgt. Ryan Kelly and citizen Jeffery Bone for their service and for the actions they took to assist a member of the public in need.