Stafford Cop Celebrated For Saving Choking Baby

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — Stafford Township police said two officers helped save a 10-month-old boy on March 17 after he began choking at a home in the Beach Haven West section of the township.

Police were dispatched that afternoon to a residence for a report of an infant choking, according to the Stafford Township Police Department. The department said SMPO Adam Sherer arrived first, assessed the situation and helped stabilize Jack Ferrante, who had a large plastic Easter egg lodged in his mouth and blocking his airway.

Officer Brandon Haines arrived shortly after and removed the object from the child's mouth, clearing the airway, according to the department. Police said Haines had been assigned to a roadwork post a short distance away when the call came in and left that assignment to respond.

Jack's grandmother, Dawn Papatheodorou, who was babysitting at the time, praised Haines in a statement released by police.

“He is my hero. Not only does STPD protect our community and fight crime, they were there when my grandson needed them most — and they saved his life,” Papatheodorou said.

Police said Jack's mother, Erica Ferrante, was working as an emergency room nurse at the time of the incident. The department said she expressed appreciation for the quick response and said she feels safe knowing how capable the Stafford Township Police Department is when families need help.

The police department said Haines has been nominated for a Life-Saving Award for his actions that day. In its account of the incident, the department also commended Sherer and Haines for their professionalism, urgency and compassion during what it described as a terrifying moment for the family.

The department said calls involving children are among the most emotional and high-pressure incidents officers respond to and described the incident as a reminder of the value of preparation and quick decision-making. Police also said they were grateful Jack was safe.