Brave Cops Tackle Violent Man in Brutal Stairwell Brawl
On May 6, 2021, PCs Joseph Tidmarsh and Jamie Long answered a chilling call about a man threatening to assault or kill someone. What followed was a violent showdown that tested their courage to the limit.
Assailant Attacks Officers Aggressively
The officers forced their way into the building through a smashed communal door and headed upstairs to confront the suspect. The man burst out of his flat, landing a punch on PC Long and shoving PC Tidmarsh backwards. Both went tumbling down the stairs, through a door, and into the garden below.
Despite the violent fall, the attacker got back to his feet, still aggressive. PC Long escaped with minor injuries. PC Tidmarsh wasn’t so lucky, suffering extensive bruising and pain. But the pair stayed focused.
Heroes Use Taser and Spray to Stop Attack
Showing remarkable calm under pressure, PC Tidmarsh and PC Long managed to restrain the man using a Taser and PAVA spray. The violent suspect was later charged with multiple offences and handed a 12-month suspended sentence. He was also ordered to pay each officer £200 in compensation.
“Despite being in pain, Joseph and Jamie remained calm and professional in a very violent situation,” said Police Federation Chair Paul Williams.
“This man was determined to injure or kill someone, and the officers bravely apprehended him. We are extremely proud of them.”
National Police Bravery Awards Nominees
PC Tidmarsh and PC Long’s gallantry earned them nominations for the prestigious National Police Bravery Awards, which honour officers across England and Wales for exceptional courage on or off duty. The pair will attend the awards reception and ceremony this July.
