Cop Who Saved Heart Attack Victim Named Officer of the Quarter

Johns Creek Police Officer Jonathan Whitley was named Officer of the Quarter for the fourth quarter of 2014 for helping save the life of a man stricken with a heart attack on a golf course, the city said on Tuesday.

“A lot of people often wonder ‘Did I make a difference today?’” said Police Chief Ed Densmore. “Officer Jonathan Whitley doesn’t have to ask that question. He made a huge difference that day. Whitley’s actions exemplify the kind of officers we have in this department. We’re very proud of him.”

Whitley, a four-year veteran of the Johns Creek Police Department, was on routine patrol about 1 p.m. Nov. 3 when he heard a call over his radio saying a man was down and unresponsive on the 12th hole of the Rivermont Country Club golf course.

Using the Automated External Defibrillator issued to each police car and employing CPR with the help of another man, Whitley was able to keep the man alive until paramedics arrived to transport him to the hospital.

Whitley started his law enforcement career with the Johns Creek Police Department in 2010 after years of being an entrepreneur, selling musical instruments. He sold his business in 2009, and at the age of 52 decided to become an officer.

“I didn’t grow up as a kid wanting to be an officer,” Whitley said. “I was interested in the challenge of the job. It’s different from anything I’ve ever done.”

Whitley said it is gratifying to know he helped resuscitate someone who might have otherwise died.

“I’m just glad I was able to do that,” Whitley said. “I’m honored to be recognized, but I think any of our officers would have done the same.”

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• Johns Creek Officer Recognized For Saving Heart Attack Victim’s Life

Photo: Officer Jonathan Whitley. Credit: city of Johns Creek