The Illinois Sheriff’s Association commended a Wabash County Sheriff’s correctional officer this week for her quick response in saving the life of a detainee.
According to the department, on May 21st, 2025, Correctional Officer Francine Clowers was in her office when she heard inmates yelling for help. She immediately went into the jail to investigate and discovered a detainee hanging from the bars inside his cell.
Authorities say the detainee had tied his thermal clothing together to form a noose and attached it to the bars in his night cell. When Clowers attempted to unlock the cell, she found the door would not open because the detainee had also tied his socks around the bottom of the door to prevent entry. Clowers quickly directed another correctional officer to retrieve scissors. After cutting away the socks and gaining access to the cell, she cut the detainee down. Officials say he was purple in color, not breathing, but still conscious. Officers lowered him to his bunk and immediately called for EMS. The detainee was transported to Wabash General Hospital for treatment. The ISA says the detainee’s life was saved due to Officer Clowers’ swift actions and training in responding to individuals in crisis and commended her for a job well done.
Clowers was recognized this week during the Illinois Sheriffs' Association 2026 Sheriffs Winter Training Conference, Awards Banquet, and Installation of Officers in Springfield. 2025 Lifesaving Awards went out to 6 Illinois County Sheriff's Offices and 11 Deputies and Correctional Officers.
The ISA produced a video recognizing all of the honorees. The portion featuring Francine Clowers is below.
Video Credit: Illinois Sheriff’s Association Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/Illinoissheriffsassociation