Essex officers commended for bravery and courageousness

FOUR Essex police officers have been commended for their bravery and courageousness during difficult and dangerous situations.

Each officer was bestowed with a commendation by Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington at an Award Ceremony at Essex Police Headquarters.

Amongst the officers honoured were PC Daniel Smith, who gave emergency first aid to a man who was severely injured by multiple stab wounds.

Daniel and an unnamed colleague were commended for their tenacity, professionalism and dedication whilst attempting to save a man’s life.

Sgt Tony Short was also recognised for putting his own life at risk to save a young woman who was threatening to jump of a bridge at a railway station.

Tony managed to reach across the bridge railing to prevent the individual from jumping before pulling her to safety over the barrier.

Tony was commended for his bravery and professionalism which undoubtedly prevented the young woman from taking her own life.

Sgt Richard Ambrose and PC Matthew Parker also encountered a similar situation in March 2018.

Richard and Matthew both approached a man who was intending to jump from a bridge onto a busy carriageway below.

Both officers took the decision to put themselves at risk by pulling the man back over the barrier to safety.

The decisive actions of both officers indisputably saved the vulnerable man’s life.

After the officers had received their awards, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Jane Gardener paid tribute to the individuals: “I would like to say thank you for the outstanding contribution you have made in a range of difficult circumstances.

One of the things I’ve always found with the officers I see is their absolute compassion in spite of the challenging situations they are confronted with.”

One other officer, DC Joanne Smith from Suffolk Constabulary and a member of the public, Mr Dilshad Rijabe, also received awards for their bravery.

Chief Constable Harrington, said: “It brings me great pleasure to host these ceremonies to celebrate ordinary individuals taking extra-ordinary steps to help save the lives of others, protect the vulnerable and keep the people of Essex safe.

“It might be what our officers, staff and volunteers do on a daily basis but their actions are courageous and I take great pride in being able to award them.”