Dorset Police officers win bravery award
Sergeant Paul Linpower and PC Lee Mather rushed into a burning kitchen to arrest a man with a knife.
The bravery of two Dorset Police officers has been recognised at the national Police Federation Bravery award.
Sergeant Paul Linpower and Police Constable Lee Mather received the South West Regional Bravery award at last night's ceremony.
The pair attended an address in Bournemouth on Friday 18 April 2019 to support care workers responding to a man suffering a mental health episode, who was behaving in a violent and threatening manner.
The awards were given last night night at the National Police Federation Bravery Awards in London.
Upon arriving at the scene, the officers found the man had occupied the kitchen of the building, which was shared by other residents including families with children. Several toxic fires had been started in the kitchen and the man was holding a large knife, which he reportedly used to threaten and lunge at the officers.
Unfortunately, the situation quickly escalated placing the man and other occupants to the building at risk. Responding to the immediate threat to life, Sergeant Linpower and Police Constable Mather took swift and decisive action. They donned protective equipment, entered the kitchen and detained the man. This enabled the fire service to enter the room and distinguish the fires.
Chief Constable Scott Chilton said:
“I am very proud of Sergeant Paul Linpower and Police Constable Lee Mather for the exceptional bravery and professionalism they demonstrated during this incident. Their quick actions had a real impact on the safety and welfare of the man and all those members of public within the building.
“I am truly humbled and delighted they are being recognised for their outstanding commitment to keeping people safe, regardless of the risks to their own safety. They represent the very best of Dorset Police.”