An off-duty deputy from the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office is being credited with saving the life of a woman who was choking while dining at a local restaurant.
Around 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 29, after having dinner with his family, off-duty Deputy C. Morito was just about to leave the Texas Roadhouse restaurant in Brooksville when he noticed that another diner appeared to be choking on a piece of food.
Morito asked the woman if she was indeed choking. When she nodded, he proceeded to perform the Heimlich maneuver. After several attempts, he was able to dislodge the food morsel.
Morito stayed with the woman until the Hernando County Fire and Emergency Services (HCFES) arrived to assess her condition.
Law enforcement Bureau Commander, Major K. Hayden saluted Morito’s quick action.
“We applaud the dedication, compassion, and quick thinking that Deputy Morito displayed, even while off duty having dinner at a local restaurant,” Hayden said. “It is a good feeling to know we have someone like Deputy Morito ever ready to help our community in a time of need.”
The woman is expected to make a complete recovery.
