Norfolk Cops Nominated for Top National Bravery Award After Taking Down Violent Thugs
Two Norfolk Police officers have bagged nominations for The National Police Bravery Awards after bravely detaining dangerous offenders wanted for threats of murder and blackmail. PCs Katie Swann and Marley-Jay Symonds will join fearless police stars from across England and Wales at the glittering London ceremony.
Violent Standoff in Ormesby Village
On the evening of 15 January 2019, officers were called to Ormesby after reports of an armed man issuing death threats and blackmail demands. Although the suspect fled initially, PCs Swann and Symonds tracked him down at his mother’s home – where they found not one but two wanted suspects.
The pair exploded in aggression, resisting arrest fiercely. PC Symonds struggled to contain one offender but was forced back as the other battled PC Swann.
“They were big, burly violent offenders,” said Norfolk Police Federation Secretary Sam Hawkins. “PC Swann and Symonds had to think on their feet and work as a team to get the job done.”
High Tension Arrest: Taser and PAVA Spray Deployed
PC Symonds dragged his suspect into the kitchen to assist PC Swann, but the man threw punches. Symonds used PAVA spray to control him, while Swann had managed to cuff one hand of her aggressive suspect. However, the violence didn’t stop, forcing Symonds to use another hit of PAVA spray.
With the situation escalating, Swann deployed a Taser. Backup soon arrived, and together they brought the offenders under control. One was sent down for 26 weeks, while the other received a fine.
National Police Bravery Awards: A Well-Deserved Honour
The National Police Bravery Awards celebrate officers across England and Wales who perform acts of outstanding courage on or off duty. Due to Covid, the 2020 ceremony was postponed, but the Police Federation launched an online tribute to all 94 nominees starting September 24.
“PC Swann and PC Symonds are fantastic colleagues. Officers never know what they’ll face when the call comes in – they just have to be ready,” said John Apter, National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales.
“We’re proud of these brave officers and look forward to celebrating them properly when it’s safe.”
