(From the Newton County Sheriff's Office)Today we unveiled our new rescue boat. The purchase and implementation of a water rescue team had been a goal of Sheriff Chris Jennings since the tragic event of May 29, 2017, when 12-year-old Brooke Robinson drowned while tubing in Shoal Creek. Sheriff Jennings has never forgotten the terrible loss the Robinson family experienced and vowed the Sheriff’s Office would take steps to assist fire departments with water rescues.
Newton County experienced record floods in 2015 and 2017. Sheriff Jennings determined the Sheriff’s Office was going to work with local fire departments and provide additional water rescue resources.
In addition to the purchase of the boat, six deputies have been trained and certified in swift water rescue. “The purpose of our team is not to compete with Redings Mill or Neosho Fire, but to work in support of them during a water rescue incident”, says Sheriff Jennings. The deputies will continue to train during the spring and summer months.
The boat is a Blazer 17-60 with a Mercury 115/80 jet motor, capable of operating in the shallow waters of Shoal Creek.
Additional equipment and gear would have to be purchased to outfit each deputy. A generous donation was made by Larry Newman, of AAA WAY Bonding, which provided each water rescue deputy with a drysuit, helmet with headlamp, gloves, life vest, footwear, gear bag and throw rope. Sheriff Jennings is extremely thankful to Larry for his generosity and support.
The boat is dedicated to the memory of Brooke Robinson. Brooke’s parents and family were present during the unveiling of the new boat. A plaque was installed in honor of Brooke, which will serve as a reminder of the mission to save lives.
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