Cincinnati (WKRC) — A Cincinnati police officer has been honored for saving the life of a woman who was attempting suicide.
On Thursday, Cincinnati police released body camera footage of Officer Newman, Officer Ramey, and others responding to a lady in distress on top of a parking garage last November.
Officer Newman is seen moving swiftly to protect the woman from falling off the edge of the parking garage.
“Can I help you get over?” Officer Newman said, “Let me help you climb over.”
According to local psychologist Dr. Stuart Bassman, the officer handled the three basic parts of suicidal ideation in his own unique manner.
“He addressed the hatred with, ‘Let me give you a hug.'” He addressed the hopelessness by stating, ‘Let me be hopeful for both of us.’ And the third, the helplessness, he addressed by saying, ‘Let me be useful to you,'” explained Dr. Bassman.
Dr. Bassman saw the footage with Local 12 on Thursday.
“I also like the way he says please. He’s asking her permission, empowering her,” said Dr. Bassman.
Please look at me. I lost my daughter many years ago, and I wish she was still alive. Okay, I’m very sorry, but listen, there are angels watching over us,” stated Officer Newman.
Dr. Bassman emphasized the human connection he had with the woman.
“Exactly, and that’s exactly what you need,” Dr. Bassman replied.
Officer Newman is seen approaching before the woman is heard pleading for assistance. Other officers rush in to help get the woman down the railing and back to safety.
I would not alter anything. Dr. Bassman stated, “The woman is alive, and the officer is also safe.”
