Westborough Cop Honored For Saving Man, Baby From Choking

WESTBOROUGH, MA — Worcester District Attorney Joseph Early Jr. this week recognized the life-saving efforts of a Westborough officer during two recent medical emergencies.

Officer John Sweeney, who joined the Westborough department last year, responded to two emergencies on Jan. 5 and Feb. 2 and provided life-saving care, according to the DA's office.

During the first incident, Sweeney went to the Arrive Apartments along Route 9 with firefighters for a call. While he was in the building, a 48-year-old man approached Sweeney and indicated he was choking. Sweeney applied the Heimlich maneuver and was able to clear food that was blocking the man's breathing.

On Feb. 2, Sweeney was on a traffic detail when a man holding a baby rushed toward Sweeney. The man gave the baby to Sweeney, who applied back blows — another technique used to help a choking person. He was able to get the baby breathing again.

"Twice in 2022, this officer has used his training, quick-thinking and compassion to save lives," Worcester DA Joseph Early Jr. said. “As someone dedicated to serving his community, Officer Sweeney displayed, not once, but twice, the impact our public safety personnel have on people’s lives. It’s incredible.”

This week Early gave Sweeney a TEAM (Team Excellence and Merit) award for his lifesaving efforts.