January 11, 2024 — Today, Sheriff Chuck Heit recognized three deputies for their actions that saved two lives recently in Berrien County at the Berrien County Commission Meeting this morning.

Pictured from left to right, Undersheriff Greg Sanders, Deputy Jonathan Cluster, Chief Deputy Sean Soulard, Deputy Nathan Withington, Sheriff Chuck Heit. Deputy Micah Carlson was not pictured because he was unavailable to attend.

On October 22, 2023, Deputies Micah Carlson and Jonathan Cluster responded to a 911 call of a full arrest at an address in Buchanan. The two deputies worked with Officer Cory Reed of the Buchanan Police Department and members of SMCAS to provide CPR and administer an AED to save the person’s life. The person in this incident was a fellow first responder (member of the Buchanan Fire Department).

On November 9, 2023, Deputy Nathan Withington stopped out at the Niles courthouse and was alerted to a medical emergency in the jury assembly room while walking through the lobby. Deputy Withington found a female choking and unable to breath. Deputy Withington performed the Heimlich maneuver several times and was able to dislodge the obstruction. The female then had a panic attack that effected her ability to breathe. Deputy Withington located her medication and helped administer it while waiting for SMCAS to arrive for follow up care.

Their fast action and teamwork helped save two lives. Sheriff Heit, and staff, presented the three deputies with the agencies “Lifesaving Award” and thanked them for their actions.