Clearwater, Fla. - A 26-year-old Clearwater police officer is being recognized for his quick actions in two separate high-stakes rescues, both of which could have ended in tragedy.

Timeline:

His first heroic act was dubbed "rescue on the rocks."

8-year-old Lavina was reported missing on Clearwater Beach by her grandmother. Officer Andrew Billups was immediately on the case as he instinctively headed toward the rocks near Clearwater Pass. This area is known for strong waves and previous drownings.

Billups mentioned, "I would like to say it's my training that helped me out, but it's like second nature."

There, he spotted Lavina at the water’s edge. She is largely nonverbal, doesn’t swim, and was surrounded by crashing waves. Body camera video shows Officer Billups calmly coaxing her b

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