On May 6, 2021, PC Joseph Tidmarsh and PC Jamie Long responded to a call from a violent, aggressive man who stated he wanted to assault or kill someone.
The officers entered the man’s building through the smashed communal door and walked up the stairs to knock on the man’s door.
The man stormed out of his flat into the officers, punching PC Long and pushing PC Tidmarsh backwards. The assailant and PC Tidmarsh both fell down the stairs, through the door, and into the garden.
The man remained violent and rose to his feet. PC Long suffered only minor injuries, while PC Tidmarsh suffered extensive bruising and pain.
Despite this, PC Tidmarsh and PC Long concentrated on apprehending the man and eventually used Taser and PAVA spray to restrain him.
The man was later charged with several offences and sentenced to a 12-month suspended sentence. He was ordered to pay each officer £200 in restitution.
Despite being in pain, Joseph and Jamie remained calm and professional in a very violent situation,” said Cumbria Police Federation Chair Paul Williams.
In an intense and frightening situation, they communicated clearly with the assailant. This man was determined to injure or kill someone, and the officers bravely apprehended him. We are extremely proud of them, and they are deserving nominees for The National Police Bravery Awards.
The National Police Bravery Awards recognise officers from across England and Wales who have displayed exceptional bravery while on or off duty.
PC Tidmarsh and PC Long will attend a reception and awards ceremony in London in July as nominees.
