Rockingham County Deputy Performs Heimlich Maneuver During Portsmouth Call

December 15, 2025 — by Scanner Alerts Media

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. — A routine civil process service in Portsmouth resulted in a life-saving intervention last Friday, December 12, 2025, when a deputy with the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office performed the Heimlich maneuver on a woman who was choking, according to a press release.

Officials said Deputy A. Bibeau arrived at a local business in the City of Portsmouth Friday morning to serve civil papers. As the deputy was walking through the parking lot, a woman approached and gestured to her throat with both hands, indicating she was actively choking.

The release stated Deputy Bibeau recognized the severity of the emergency and administered a series of abdominal thrusts, which dislodged a cough drop that had obstructed the woman’s airway.

Lieutenant Brian Rathman stated, “We commend Deputy Bibeau for her quick actions, composure, and compassion in such a stressful situation. Our deputies are trained to respond to all types of emergencies, and this incident highlights the critical importance of that training. We are incredibly fortunate to have her on our team.”

After the cough drop was dislodged, the woman refused further medical attention from Emergency Medical Services (EMS), according to the release. Deputy Bibeau remained with the woman until she was stable and comfortable before departing.

Point of Contact: Major Bashaw, 603-679-9479

Credit: Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office