Recruiters save woman at Hmong New Year

December 19, 2024

Sgt. Jor Lee, left, and Officer Teng Thao at Central California Women's Facility.

When a woman attending the Sacramento Hmong New Year celebration had a medical emergency, two CDCR recruiters rushed to her aid.

The Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) recruiters demonstrated exemplary courage and dedication during the celebration at Cal Expo, according to recruitment officials.

From Nov. 29 to Dec. 1, CCWF peace officer recruiters Sgt. Jor Lee and Officer Teng Thao attended the festival, one of the largest Hmong New Year events in the country. Their presence was especially meaningful, as both officers share Hmong heritage.

During the festival, their role as recruiters took an unexpected turn. A young girl frantically approached them, reporting that her grandmother was experiencing a heart attack near the stage. Without hesitation, Sgt. Lee and Officer Thao rushed to the scene, finding the woman unresponsive.

“I am incredibly proud of Sgt. Jor Lee and Officer Teng Thao for their swift and decisive action to save a life in the community.”
Warden Anissa De La Cruz, CCWF

Recruiters act quickly to save a life

Thao immediately called 911 while Lee began administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Despite the chaos, the officers remained focused and composed, working together under the dispatcher’s guidance.

After 15 minutes of CPR, a Sacramento County sheriff’s deputy joined them to rotate the CPR sessions. Emergency medical services arrived shortly after. The CDCR staff continued assisting, helping place the woman on the stokes litter and into the ambulance.

Thanks to their quick thinking, expertise, and selfless actions, the victim began showing signs of breathing and was rushed to the hospital for further treatment.

“During that moment, all I cared about was keeping her alive. I didn’t care how tired or exhausted I was from performing CPR because I had a chance to save her life and bring her back to her daughter and granddaughter,” said Sgt. Lee.

Officer Thao agreed.

“As a peace officer with CDCR, it only takes two hands to save a life. Always be prepared for the unexpected,” she said. “Be the lifeline to the person in crisis. Be a giver, not a taker.”

Response to recruiters’ actions

Warden Anissa De La Cruz praised her staff for the quick actions.

“I am incredibly proud of Sgt. Jor Lee and Officer Teng Thao for their swift and decisive action to save a life in the community. Their quick thinking, skill, and bravery made all the difference in that critical moment. I’m beyond grateful for their commitment to helping others,” she said.

This incident is a powerful testament to the bravery, compassion, and dedication of CDCR’s correctional officers, who consistently go above and beyond the call of duty to serve and protect our communities.

“We proudly recognize the heroic actions of Sgt. Lee and Officer Thao, who embody the spirit of heroism and selflessness. Their actions highlight the critical, often unsung role correctional officers play in our communities,” according to a statement issued by the Peace Officer Recruitment Unit.

Two recruiters with four people in traditional outfits at the Hmong New Year celebration at Cal Expo in Sacramento. — Recruiters at Sacramento Hmong New Year at Cal Expo.

The Hmong New Year event combines cultural celebration and recruitment opportunities, reflecting CDCR’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and community engagement.

CDCR is deeply committed to fostering a diverse workforce that mirrors the communities we serve. By attending such cultural events, we strengthen our recruitment efforts while also building trust and relationships within these communities.

Interested Correctional Officer applicants can apply online at JoinCDCR.com.

Story by Lauren Hieb, associate governmental program analyst
Peace Officer Recruitment Unit

Additional information and institution photo by Lt. M. Williams
Central California Women’s Facility, Chowchilla

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