An officer from Cambridgeshire Police has been nominated for the prestigious National Police Bravery Awards 2024 for his courageous actions in a life-threatening situation involving a distressed individual contemplating suicide.

On April 28, 2023, police received a concerning call from a member of the public reporting that his friend had left a suicide note. The urgency of the situation prompted a swift response from Cambridgeshire Police, with Sergeant Jamie Cooper being dispatched to the scene.

PS Cooper, who was single-handedly responding to the call, began searching for the distressed individual. Through diligent inquiries, it was discovered that the individual might have headed to a well-known bridge in Peterborough.

Upon reaching the bridge, PS Cooper spotted the man in a visibly distressed state, standing perilously close to the edge, holding a ligature, and brandishing a large samurai sword.

Without hesitation, PS Cooper confronted the man, who was intent on self-harm. Despite the inherent danger, PS Cooper bravely engaged with the individual, swiftly disarming him of the sword and preventing him from harming himself.

PS Cooper’s quick thinking and decisive actions averted a potential tragedy. He not only removed the immediate threat but also called for backup to ensure the individual’s safety.

For his exceptional bravery and selflessness, PS Cooper has not only been nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards 2024 but also for a Royal Humane Society award and a Chief Constable Commendation.

Cambridgeshire Police Federation Chair Liz Groom commended PS Cooper, stating, “Without Jamie’s intervention, the male would have inevitably lost his life or been seriously injured. His actions are a testament to the dedication and bravery exhibited by police officers every day.”

Cambridgeshire Police Chief Constable Nick Dean expressed his gratitude, acknowledging PS Cooper’s bravery and quick thinking in ensuring the safety of the individual in crisis.

PS Jamie Cooper’s nomination for the Police Bravery Awards 2024 underscores the remarkable courage and commitment exemplified by police officers in protecting and serving their communities.