A team of courageous officers from Cleveland Police has been nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards 2024 after their heroic actions in containing an armed individual during a fast-moving and violent incident that left three of them with knife wounds.
PCs Holly Grey, Sam Handley, Maverick Reddington, Rachael Dack, and Cara Crosby, along with two anonymous officers, displayed exceptional bravery and teamwork in the face of imminent danger.
The incident unfolded when PCs Holly Grey and Sam Handley responded to a call of safety concern, which quickly escalated into violence. PC Handley was subjected to a frenzied attack, while PC Grey sustained stab wounds to her leg and hand.
Despite the gravity of the situation, the officers worked together to contain the armed individual, who was intent on resisting arrest at any cost. Taser deployment proved ineffective, and attempts to calm the individual were ignored as he became increasingly agitated.
The assailant made multiple attempts to overpower the officers, even rushing at PC Grey in an effort to seize her Taser. PC Handley’s quick thinking and deployment of PAVA spray prevented further escalation.
The situation remained tense as the individual continued to attack, forcing PC Grey to the ground and inflicting injuries on other officers. Despite sustaining stab and slash wounds, the officers remained resolute in their efforts to subdue the assailant and protect the public.
Cleveland Police Federation Secretary Carl Baker praised the officers for their immense bravery and courage in detaining the offender despite sustaining injuries. He highlighted the sheer luck that prevented a potentially fatal outcome for one of the officers.
Cleveland Police Federation Chair Paul Crowley expressed immense pride in the nominated officers, acknowledging their exceptional bravery and commitment to public safety.
Chief Constable Mark Webster lauded the officers for their bravery and resilience in the face of danger, emphasizing their exemplary representation of Cleveland Police.
The nomination of these officers for the Police Bravery Awards 2024 serves as a testament to their unwavering dedication and valour in protecting their community.
