Birley Academy staff recognised after apprehending former student who attacked pupil

Molly Bulmer and Alicia Richards helped to restrain 17 year old Louis Melotte, who is now serving a 10 year sentence.

Molly Bulmer and Alicia Richards have been presented with certificates by South Yorkshire Police.
Author: Matt SoanesPublished 9th Oct 2024

Two staff at a South Yorkshire school who intervened after a pupil assaulted another student with a shard of broken glass have been commended for their bravery.

Molly Bulmer and Alicia Richards restrained Louis Melotte, who was 17 at the time, when he attacked his 12 year old victim at Sheffield's Birley Academy on the morning of May 1 this year.

Ms Bulmer was hit with the glass at least 10 times during the incident, but ultimately suffered just minor injuries.

The pair's actions prevented Melotte escaping into the school and potentially hurting more people.

The now 18 year old is serving a ten year sentence comprised of five years in a young offender institution and an extended licence period of five years.

The two staff members have now been presented with certificates by South Yorkshire Police.

DCI Knowles, of South Yorkshire Police's Major Crime Unit, said:

"Ms Richards and Ms Bulmer showed incredible bravery. Without hesitation, they put themselves in harm's way to protect the children at that school and I am delighted their actions have been recognised through these certificates of commendation.

"The incident, which was captured on CCTV and has since been released to the public, shows how both of these women bravely faced some of the most extreme violence imaginable without any thought for their own safety.

"Their actions that day prevented Melotte gaining access to the building, allowing school staff the time to initiate lockdown procedures and keep all the children in their care safe from harm."

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