Bernards Twp. Officers Honored For Saving Resident's Life

BERNARDS TOWNSHIP, NJ — The Bernards Township Police Department, along with township resident Jim Durkin and his family, presented the Life Saving Award to six officers for their roles in saving Durkin's life.

Sgt. Ray Gizienski, Sgt. Phil Jasina, Sgt. Chris Albanese, Officer Joshua Filipovits, Officer Olivia Strama and Officer Joseph Gorky received the award for their actions after responding to a welfare check triggered by an Apple Watch emergency alert.

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Officers arrived to find Durkin unconscious and unresponsive and immediately began lifesaving measures. Through CPR, airway management and six AED shocks, they sustained him until EMS arrived, ultimately helping save his life, according to the department.

The Bernards Township Police Department said the officers' professionalism, quick thinking and commitment to the community exemplify the department's values.

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