HCSO Detention Deputy Saves Choking Inmate

Date: December 29, 2021

On 12-28-2021 at 10:22 a.m., Hernando County Sheriff’s Detention Deputy B. Collito was working at the booking release desk when an inmate, who appeared to be choking, approached the desk.

Deputy Collito observed the inmate pointing to his throat while attempting to speak. Deputy Collito asked the inmate if he was choking to which the inmate replied by nodding his head.

Deputy Collito immediately positioned himself behind the inmate and performed the Heimlich maneuver. Deputy Collito was successful in getting the food dislodged from the inmate’s throat and reopening his airway.

The inmate was escorted to the medical unit at the detention center for further evaluation. He is expected to make a full recovery.

“Although our detention deputies are not in the public’s eye, they still have to be prepared to administer lifesaving measures at a moment’s notice,” said Hernando County Sheriff Al Nienhuis. “Their dedication and professionalism are appreciated.”

The Office of Sheriff:

The Office of the Sheriff is established by the Florida Constitution. As a constitutional officer, the Sheriff has the exclusive authority to administer his or her agency and is responsible for preserving the peace throughout the entire county, carrying out the laws of the state, the orders of Florida courts, and the ordinances of the Board of County Commissioners. The Sheriff is the chief law enforcement and correctional officer of the county.

Sheriff Al Nienhuis was initially appointed as the Sheriff of Hernando County by the Governor in January of 2011. He was then elected by the people of Hernando County in 2012, ran unopposed in 2016, and was re-elected in 2020. Sheriff Nienhuis remains accountable to the people of Hernando County.