Quick action by a Dorset Police student officer helped a baby in distress after a choking incident at a leisure centre.
PC Paulo Abreu, who joined Dorset Police in January 2026, was on a study day break at Kings Park Leisure Centre on 12 March when he noticed an eight month old girl struggling after putting a plastic wrapper in her mouth.
He identified himself to the child’s mother and carried out checks before using back slaps to try to clear the blockage, which was successfully dislodged, allowing the baby to breathe again before being taken to hospital as a precaution.
PC Abreu said the training he had recently completed “just kicked in” and added he was “so pleased” to later hear the child had been given the all clear.
The baby’s mother said the situation unfolded quickly and described how she “just panicked,” adding the family were thankful he “took control of the situation.”
PC Abreu previously served as a volunteer special constable and worked in the Force Command Centre before becoming a regular officer, saying he feels proud “helping people when they need us the most.”
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan said the incident demonstrated the impact of police training, describing the response as “lifesaving first aid.”