Two Dorset Police officers who were viciously attacked, after stopping a man believed to be driving under the influence of alcohol, have been nominated for a Police Bravery Award.
Police Constable Charlotte Harvey and Police Sergeant Simon Kempton have been nominated for an award at the 23rd Police Bravery Awards in London on 12th July.
The awards, which honour and recognise police officers who have performed outstanding acts of bravery, are held by the Police Federation of England and Wales.
On Saturday 28th October last year, PC Harvey and Sgt Kempton stopped a vehicle that was being driven erratically at Morden Park Corner on the A35 in Poole.
The driver of the vehicle was seen to be shaking, sweating profusely and slurring his words. As he stumbled, Sgt Kempton grabbed him to stop him being hit by traffic. The man then became aggressive.
During the man’s attacks, Sgt Kempton sustained a blow to the head and PC Harvey was elbowed and punched in the face.
When the driver returned to his car and attempted to drive away, Sgt Kempton reached into the open window and grabbed the keys out of the ignition. The man got out of the car, still behaving aggressively, and proceeded to run into oncoming traffic. Both officers risked their lives, to safely pull him out of harm’s way. Afterwards, both officers were taken to Poole Hospital for treatment.
Chair of Dorset Police Federation, Anna Harvey, says: “The bravery and professionalism shown by PC Harvey and Sgt Kempton went above and beyond the normal call of duty. The showed exceptional bravery, putting their own lives at risk to apprehend a violent member of the public, while ensuring he did not come to any harm”.
Stephen Mann, CEO of Police Mutual, sponsors of the award, says, “To all of you who have been nominated, be proud of yourselves and your achievements. When it mattered most, you stepped up. At Police Mutual, my colleagues and I are deeply honoured to be able to show our appreciation for your bravery in keeping us safe”.