Commendations for officers who tackled armed man

SEVEN Essex police officers have received top honours from Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh for their dedication to protecting members of the public both on and off duty.

Inspector Martin Somerset-Butler, Sgt Katy Major, PC Stewart Woodley and former Essex Police Officer James Stewart each received a commendation for their bravery and dedication while dealing with an armed man.

In January 2015, the four officers attended a domestic incident where a woman had been barricaded inside her house by her armed son, who was suffering from mental illness.

Without any regard for their safety, the officers forced entry into the property and were able to disarm and restrain the man without injury after they saw him attacking his mother.

PC Paul Nolan, from Chelmsford, was commended for his quick thinking and dedication while saving the life of a woman.

In May 2016, while off duty, Paul witnessed a woman acting suspiciously on a bridge over the A12.

When he approached the woman calmly, he realised she was unable to speak. He was able to communicate with her by sign language.

Paul negotiated with the woman to come with him away from the bridge until the arrival of uniformed officers. He even managed to pull the woman to safety as she climbed over the barrier to jump.

And PC Barry McLean, from Grays, received a commendation for bravery.

In May 2016, while off duty and with only 18 weeks’ service, Barry challenged a man who he had spotted climbing over the fence of a back garden.

The man lunged at Barry and stabbed him in the hand and shoulder before making off.

Despite being severely injured and worrying about the safety of others, Barry chased the man until he could no longer keep running due to blood loss.

Speaking at the event, CC Kavanagh said: “Today is one of the proudest days I have seen as chief constable. It’s fantastic to see this brilliant work and give recognition”