Deputy sheriff honored for saving accident victim

Orange County Deputy Sheriff Joseph Carey has received the 2024 Lifesaving Award for his heroic actions while off duty and on his way to work.

Carey administered first aid alongside an emergency medical responder. His quick actions, fastening tourniquets and applying pressure, allowed doctors to save the victim’s leg and ultimately his life.

“Deputy Carey’s choice to stop and render aid to a stranger had a profound and lasting impact on the victim and his family,” Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) Commissioner Rossana Rosado said. “...On behalf of DCJS and all New Yorkers, we thank him for his public service and selfless acts.”

Rosado chairs the Governor’s Police Officer of the Year Award Selection Committee, which reviews nominations and selects recipients for the annual Police Officer of the Year Award. Since 1984, that honor has been presented to a single officer or team of officers for an exceptional act of valor.

In 2016, the committee created the Lifesaving Award to recognize nominees whose heroic actions saved lives. Carey is the 23rd member of law enforcement to receive the award.

The victim’s family described Carey as their guardian angel, writing that he appeared at just the right time to keep their family whole.

“Law enforcement officers are often the first to arrive at life-threatening emergencies, and their decisions can be life-altering,” said DCJS Deputy Commissioner, Office of Public Safety Michael Bonse. “Deputy Carey’s courage and quick thinking gave the victim a second lease on life. It is my honor to thank him on behalf of all New Yorkers and to present him with the 2024 Lifesaving Award on behalf of Commissioner Rosado and the Division of Criminal Justice Services.”

Carey received the award during a ceremony on Nov. 3 at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Bonse presented the honor on behalf of DCJS. He was joined by Sheriff Paul Arteta, his law enforcement colleagues, and fellow members of the Army National Guard.

“We are honored to have Deputy Commissioner Bonse present Deputy Carey with this Lifesaving Award for his quick actions that August day,” Arteta said. “His efforts not only had a significant impact in that moment but also created a ripple effect that continues every day. Deputy Carey gave someone the best possible outcome in a terrible situation.”