Sheriff Larry Ashley has honored a Florosa resident with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office “Community Service Award”, saying the man’s actions are the primary reason a young mother is still alive today to take care of her baby.
Jim Rogers didn’t waste any time when he saw the woman speed down his driveway in her car and head straight into Santa Rosa Sound last month.
Rogers ran out and jumped into the cold, rough waters. He worked to move the slowly sinking car into a shallower spot and pulled the woman to safety through the back door of the car.
It was later learned turns out she had driven into the water deliberately, emotionally distraught over a series of issues including a troubled marriage, shaky job status, a new baby and no money for formula.
By the time OCSO deputies and local firefighters got to the scene, Rogers had already gotten the panic-stricken young mother to safety and wrapped her in a blanket. She was taken to the hospital for the help she needed.
“Jim Rogers’ quick actions, bravery, and compassion prevented a potentially tragic outcome and I am very proud to present him our Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Community Service Award,” said Sheriff Ashley.
