PC Jack Ginger, PC Jessica Hamblett, and PC Richard Hayes were on mobile patrol in a plain vehicle on March 24, 2021. PC Hamblett noticed a group of people loitering together.
PC Hayes reversed the vehicle due to this group’s suspicious behaviour. While doing so, the officers heard a loud bang, which they mistook for a firearm discharge.
A few seconds later, they noticed a man running down the street with a black bin liner in an apparent attempt to conceal its contents. Because of his demeanour and the loud bang the officers had just heard, they identified themselves as cops, and the man fled towards a black Ford Focus that was parked with two other men inside.
PCs Ginger, Hamblett, and Hayes immediately pursued the man they suspected of having the firearm. The man attempted to enter the Ford Focus, which fled, driving dangerously on the pavement towards the officers while leaving the man with the gun behind.
This man fled and was pursued on foot by PC Ginger, followed by PC Hayes, and assisted in the police vehicle by PC Hamblett. PC Ginger and his colleagues were able to apprehend the man after a chase through a number of back streets.
PC Hayes then searched the route of the pursuit and discovered the black bin bag discarded near where the offender had attempted to enter the car. This bin bag contained a prohibited firearm, a converted blank-firing Retay handgun with the cartridge still in the chamber.
The offender was charged with having a firearm in his possession with the intent to endanger life. His fingerprints were discovered on the bag containing the gun, and he was arrested.
In July 2021, the offender was sentenced to five years in prison.
What a fantastic trio of colleagues,” said Greater Manchester Police Federation Chair Lee Broadbent. “We are extremely proud of their efforts.” Jack, Jessica, and Richard were exceptionally brave in pursuing a male who was armed with a firearm that they believed had just been discharged.
“The officers acted quickly to apprehend this man and prevent any harm to members of the public, putting their own safety at risk.”
Not only was the suspect apprehended, but their excellent commentary throughout the pursuit directed other officers to assist, and the subsequent scene management ensured the recovery of the weapon and other critical evidence.
“These officers’ actions have resulted in the arrest of a very high-risk individual, which will have a significant impact on protecting and reassuring the local community.”
The National Police Bravery Awards recognise officers from across England and Wales who have displayed exceptional bravery while on or off duty.
PC Ginger, PC Hamblett, and PC Hayes will attend a reception and awards ceremony in London in July as nominees.
