A team of unarmed officers from North Wales Police has been nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards 2024 for their courageous intervention during a harrowing incident involving an aggressive man armed with a loaded gun.

The incident unfolded on April 7, 2023, when North Wales Police received a distress call from a vulnerable woman reporting a heated altercation with her son, Bobby Lee Hughes, at their home in Holyhead. The caller expressed grave concerns about her son’s behaviour, describing it as a “massive blow-out.”

Sergeant Dylan Thomas and PCs Rachael Roberts, Rob Burgess, Dion Hughes, and Rob Williamson swiftly responded to the scene after receiving reports that Hughes had mentioned possessing a firearm during the altercation.

Upon arrival, the officers were met with a highly volatile situation as Hughes, standing at the top of the stairs, brandished a gun and issued threats. Despite the imminent danger, Sergeant Thomas and PCs Roberts and Hughes simultaneously deployed their Tasers in an attempt to subdue Hughes.

The deployment partially incapacitated Hughes, causing him to fall and drop the firearm down the stairs. However, Hughes quickly retreated to his bedroom, still perceived to be armed. PC Williamson repeatedly ordered Hughes to surrender, unaware that he was no longer in possession of the weapon.

In a sudden turn of events, Hughes emerged from his bedroom and was promptly detained and arrested by the officers. A subsequent examination of the firearm revealed that it was cocked and loaded, underscoring the grave threat posed by Hughes’ actions.

Hughes was later charged with possession of an air rifle with intent to cause fear of violence and received a two-year suspended prison sentence on August 3, 2023.

Reflecting on the incident, Sergeant Thomas emphasized the importance of quick decision-making in the face of imminent danger, acknowledging the potential consequences had they not taken decisive action.

North Wales Police Federation Chair Vinny Jones commended the officers for their selfless bravery in neutralizing the threat posed by Hughes, highlighting their unwavering commitment to protecting the community.

Chief Superintendent Sian Beck praised the officers for their exemplary response to a volatile domestic situation, emphasizing their professionalism and dedication to ensuring the safety of the victim.

Deputy Chief Constable Nigel Harrison lauded the officers’ bravery and selflessness in confronting an armed assailant with only Tasers at their disposal, underscoring their commitment to upholding public safety.

The nomination of these officers for the Police Bravery Awards 2024 serves as a testament to their exceptional courage and unwavering commitment to protecting the community in the face of grave danger.