Monday, Mar 13, 2023–8:07 p.m.

-David Crowder, WRGA News-

PFC Chris Ridling is the Rome Police Department’s Officer of the Year.

Ridling has served with the Rome Police Department since 2004, and this past December he responded to a call regarding a possible overdose at a home on Rudy Street.

Although the scene was chaotic, with people yelling and screaming, Ridling started offering aid to a man who had no sign of a pulse.

“Ridling repositioned the man on the floor,” said Rome City Commissioner Bonny Askew. “He then connected and activated his department-issued AED and began chest compressions.”

Ridling continued to administer aid until fire and EMS arrived at the scene.

“We are just very proud of PFC Ridling,” said Rome Police Chief Denise Downer-McKinney. “He has worked in our patrol division and he is a certified field training officer. He was reassigned this past October, and he had received numerous commendations and accolades.”

PFC Ridling was honored during Monday’s Rome City Commission meeting.