The same day the Ship Bottom Police Department was recognized for its professionalism as part of its accreditation, its officers were lauded for the safe recovery of a child who wandered off from the Sixth Street beach after lifeguard hours before being found more than a mile away in Brant Beach.

“So, unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for us,” said Sgt. Chris Biester, who received the call about 10 minutes after the parents began searching for their 6-year-old son.