An ICE officer took quick action by jumping into a Florida pool to rescue a young child struggling to stay afloat. This act occurred amid heightened criticism and protests against the agency.
Officer Gregory Simmonds was at a community pool in Pasco County, Florida, when he observed a child floating unconscious in the water. Closed-circuit footage captured Simmonds immediately jumping into the pool fully clothed to assist the child.
After bringing the child to the pool’s edge, Simmonds performed CPR until the child regained consciousness. The child is now expected to fully recover, according to law enforcement.
Acting Assistant DHS Secretary Lauren Bis praised Simmonds for his swift action in delivering life-saving care to the 6-year-old. She emphasized the dedication of ICE agents in protecting the community.
Pasco County Sheriff’s Office Cpl. J. Leathers noted that Simmonds’ decisive actions were crucial in saving the child’s life, illustrating exceptional courage and selflessness.
This incident is one of several recent rescues by DHS officers. In another instance, an agent at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York saved a 1-year-old amid a medical emergency.
Despite facing criticism and protests, ICE officers continue to protect Americans and are involved in life-saving actions, as demonstrated by other rescues carried out by ICE agents, including saving a child from drowning in a Minnesota hotel pool.