Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office Receives $50,000 – Purchases AED’s

March 5, 2026

Press Release

The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce a $50,000 grant from Walbridge to purchase 22 Stryker Lifepak CR2 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) for patrol cars and prisoner transport vehicles. The new devices will significantly expand access to early defibrillation throughout Calhoun County, particularly in outlying and rural areas where response times can be longer.

According to WMed Medical Control, Calhoun County averages approximately 250 cardiac arrest calls annually, with some outlying areas historically underserved. Dispatch now automatically sends law enforcement, along with fire and EMS, to cardiac arrest calls, recognizing that early defibrillation and immediate, hands-on CPR dramatically increase survival rates.

The Stryker Lifepak CR2 devices offer advanced features that enhance patient care and coordination, including:

• Integration with local ambulance and fire systems
• Real-time status monitoring
• The ability to transmit patient data directly to emergency responders and hospitals
• A built-in pediatric “child mode” for use on younger patients

“This generous donation will absolutely save lives,” said Steve Hinkley. “Our deputies are often the first to arrive on scene, especially in rural parts of the county. Having these AEDs in our patrol cars and transport vehicles ensures we can immediately begin lifesaving measures while EMS is en route. We are incredibly grateful to Walbridge for their commitment to public safety and to the health of our community.”

The Sheriff’s Office extends its sincere appreciation to Walbridge for its generosity and to WMed Medical Control and Stryker for their partnership and support in implementing this program.