Waldo County Sheriff’s Deputy Daniel Perez was recently given a commendation for saving the life of a person attempting to end theirs, according to Sergeant Cody Laite.

According to Laite, Perez was conducting an investigation in Winterport when the primary suspect involved in the case caught wind of the investigation and attempted to take their own life.

Though details of the event are not being released, Laite said that the person made two attempts on their life, both of which required life-saving measures. The injuries were physical in nature and did not involve an attempt to overdose.

“It was actual first aid of physical injuries,” Sergeant Laite said.

The person was transported to Eastern Maine Medical Center where they were released after roughly one week.

Laite presented Perez with the commendation in front of the entire department, saying:  “As a result of Deputy Perez’s immediate sound decision-making and ability to render crucial first aid the subject was transferred to further medical attention and survived the incident. It is without a doubt that Deputy Perez’s actions saved the life of a human being on that day.”

The commendation said: “The type of service and decision making that Deputy Perez displayed was in standing with the high level of service and professionalism that the Waldo County Sheriff’s Office strives to achieve. His service was above and beyond the normal level of response and is greatly appreciated.”

Laite said Perez was appreciative of the award.

“He’s the type of deputy and person that doesn’t like recognition. He likes to just do his thing — he always does the right thing, and to be recognized in front of everybody, he was very appreciative,” Laite said.

Erica Thoms can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com