Extraordinary acts of bravery and life-saving efforts by members of the public and police officers were celebrated at the Chief Constable’s Awards Ceremony held on Tuesday, November 12, at the Kent Police College.
The event, hosted by Chief Constable Tim Smith, Police & Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott, and Kent High Sheriff Dr. Gillian Fargher, highlighted the heroic actions of individuals who went above and beyond to protect and save lives.
Life-Saving Partnership: PC and Police Dog
PC Philip Jones and his police dog, Bear, were honoured for their quick response to a call in Denton in February 2024. Within seven minutes of arriving at a wooded area, PD Bear detected a vulnerable man in distress. Thanks to their efforts, PC Jones was able to administer life-saving treatment.
Youngest Hero: Ten-Year-Old Saves Mother
Michelle Arinze, just 10 years old, showed remarkable composure in May 2024 when she found her mother unconscious at their home in Gravesend. Michelle called 999 and followed instructions to provide life support for 10 minutes until emergency responders arrived.
Officer’s Calm Saves Life on Ledge
PC Tom Vinall received an award for saving a vulnerable woman in May 2024. Responding to a call about a woman on a ledge at a derelict property in Gillingham, PC Vinall built trust with her and eventually guided her to safety.
Brave Property Entries
Two incidents saw officers risk their safety to save lives:
- PC William Simmons and PC Katie Lacey entered a Folkestone property in October 2023 to find an unconscious man. Their quick action with CPR revived him.
- Acting Sergeant Adam Rafter and a colleague responded to an urgent medical situation in Gravesend in March 2024. They stemmed a severe bleed and performed CPR until the man regained consciousness.
Public and Police Collaboration
The awards highlighted teamwork between officers and civilians during critical moments:
- Ellie Waller acted courageously in December 2023 when she found a man who had been stabbed in Whitstable. She administered first aid until police and medics arrived.
- PC Honey Hall, off-duty in January 2024, provided CPR to an unconscious man in Whitstable, managing the crowd and performing first aid until paramedics took over.
Chief Constable’s Praise
Chief Constable Tim Smith expressed his admiration for all award recipients, stating:
“It is an honour to commend those who go above and beyond the call of duty to help others. The bravery and selflessness shown by our officers and the public fill me with immense pride.”
The ceremony underscored the vital role of community and police partnerships in saving lives and supporting one another during challenging times.
