Flint Post Troopers Receive Lifesaving Award

On Thursday at a special ceremony in Lansing, Michigan State Police (MSP) Director Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue presented D/Lt. Shannon Sims and Tpr. Denis McGuckin of the Flint Post with the MSP Lifesaving Award.

On October 4, 2011, after the Thumb Narcotics Unit (TNU) concluded executing a search warrant and arresting an individual for manufacturing marijuana, the individual’s father arrived and was informed of the arrest. Unexpectedly, the father fell to the ground, hitting his head and losing consciousness. McGuckin and Sims quickly retrieved an Automated External defibrillator (AED) and first aid kit from their patrol car began medical treatment.

McGuckin administered the AED, and McGuckin and Sims performed two-person CPR until a pulse was established and the man began breathing.

In presenting Sims and McGuckin with the MSP Lifesaving Award, the department recognizes if not for their quick actions, the victim may not have survived.

Sims enlisted with the department in 1995, graduating as a member of the 113th Trooper Recruit School. Prior to serving at the Flint Post in March of 2012, Sims served as a trooper at the Jonesville, Detroit and Richmond posts, and as a member of the County of Macomb Enforcement Team (COMET). He also served as the assistant post commander of the Detroit and Metro North Posts, team leader of the Flint Area Narcotics Group (FANG) and the Unit Commander of TNU. Sims is a previous recipient of the department’s Lifesaving and Bravery Award.

Sims resides in Genesee County with his wife and four children.

McGuckin enlisted with the department in 2000, graduating as a member of the 119th Trooper Recruit School. Prior to serving at the Flint Post, McGuckin served as a trooper at the Lapeer Post as well as a member of the Third District Interdiction Team. McGuckin is a previous recipient of the department’s Lifesaving Award.