An off-duty Warwickshire Police Sergeant, Adam Skelsey, has been nominated for the national Police Bravery Awards 2024 after displaying exceptional courage and determination in pursuing a wanted suspect despite being off duty and facing multiple assaults.
On July 5, 2023, Sergeant Skelsey encountered a male individual who was wanted and notorious for evading custody. Despite lacking personal protective equipment or a radio, he instinctively intervened to prevent the suspect from escaping.
Identifying himself as a police officer, Sergeant Skelsey seized the wanted individual. However, another individual accompanying the suspect intervened, prompting an assault on Sergeant Skelsey in an attempt to aid the suspect’s escape.
Undeterred by the assault, Sergeant Skelsey maintained his grip on the suspect and sought assistance from the public. Fortunately, nearby shopkeepers heard the commotion and alerted on-duty officers.
Despite being outnumbered, Sergeant Skelsey relentlessly pursued the suspect, who attempted to flee to a nearby carpark, taking them out of public view and increasing the danger of the situation.
Despite sustaining injuries and facing repeated assaults, Sergeant Skelsey continued his pursuit, eventually detaining the suspect once more. However, the assailant intervened again, assaulting Sergeant Skelsey to facilitate the suspect’s escape.
Despite the challenges, Sergeant Skelsey coordinated a search with other units, ensuring the suspect did not evade custody or pose a continued threat to the community.
Due to his unwavering determination and bravery, the suspect was eventually detained and received a 16-week sentence for the offences and assault.
Andy Morrissey, Warwickshire Police Federation deputy chair, commended Sergeant Skelsey’s resilience and dedication to public safety, emphasizing that police officers are committed to upholding the law and protecting the public, even when off duty.
Warwickshire Police Assistant Chief Constable Ben Smith praised Sergeant Skelsey’s courage and professionalism, highlighting his selfless actions in putting the safety of the public above his own despite facing multiple assaults and challenging circumstances.
Sergeant Adam Skelsey’s nomination for the Police Bravery Awards is a testament to his extraordinary dedication to policing and his unwavering commitment to keeping the community safe.
