Jefferson County Sheriff’s Deputy Delivers Baby While on Duty

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala.  A sheriff’s deputy in Alabama is being honored after he helped a woman deliver a baby inside her home.

Sgt. Jeremy Barbin with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office was working at a crime scene when a man ran up to him asking for help because his girlfriend was in active labor inside their home.

When Barbin and the man arrived at the home, he immediately jumped in to help deliver the baby and then took her to the hospital.

“As we walked into the home, we noticed that the woman was already in active labor,” Barbin said. “We jumped into action to help deliver the baby and to safely unwrap the umbilical cord from the baby’s neck.”

The sheriff’s office tells WBRC they typically do not undergo training on how to deliver a baby. However, deputies are trained to be prepared for any situation.

Barbin says he is always honored to serve in whatever role that may be.

“Every day is different for our unit, and you never know what you may experience,” he said. “I’m thankful that we were in the right place at the right time to help safely deliver this baby and to provide relief to both mom and dad.”

Sheriff Mark Pettway says he is honored to have sergeants like Barbin as a part of his office.

“Sgt. Barbin went over and above the call of duty and stepped into a situation when he could have easily waited for someone else,” Sheriff Pettway said. “He showcased his unwavering commitment to preserving life in a critical moment.”

Barbin will be awarded the Lifesaving Medal on Friday at the JCSO Academy graduation.

WBRC