Deputies and Whiteville Police used a tracking system to help rescue a dementia patient Friday.
Joe Baldwin, 70, disappeared from his home sometime between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m., according to a release from the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office. Family members had signed Baldwin up with Project Lifesaver.
The program uses a radio tracker worn by the subject to provide help during emergencies.
CCSO Lt. Darris Floyd, who heads up the program for the county, was notified and deployed the sheriff’s office tracking team along with other officers and deputies. The team collected receivers and began searching the area around Baldwin’s home for the missing man.
Within an hour of starting the search, the release said, deputies picked up a signal from a metal building 540 yards from the Baldwin home. He was checked out by rescue personnel and returned to his family without injuries.
“The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office extends heartfelt gratitude to the Whiteville Police Department for their assistance in this case,” Sheriff W.A. “Bill” Rogers said in the release. “Collaboration between law enforcement agencies is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members.”
Currently the county has one transmitter available through Project Lifesaver. Transmitters are paid for through donations.
For eligibility requirements, to donate or for more information, call Floyd at 910.317.6149.
