Police Officers Stop Armed Man’s Deadly Pub Ambush
PC Leanne Payne and PC Joseph Konieczny faced a terrifying showdown at a Surlingham pub on May 23, 2021. They were called after reports of a man dressed in military gear, armed with what looked like a rifle.
The twist? The man was carrying an imitation gun and planned to provoke police into shooting him. He even warned a pub worker, “I will come into the pub in a minute, I will be armed.”
“Nightmare” Encounter Ends with Calm Heroism
When the officers arrived, they met a man brandishing what seemed like a real weapon. The situation was anything but ordinary.
However, the man slipped while threatening the officers. Seizing the moment, PC Payne and PC Konieczny fired a non-lethal baton round, hitting him in the leg and successfully disarming him.
The suspect was arrested and later sentenced to four years and four months in prison. The judge said he was “clearly intending a fatal action” and had put everyone in the pub at risk of serious psychological harm.
Police Federation Praises Officers’ Bravery
Sam Hawkins, Secretary of the Norfolk Police Federation, said:
“What incredible courage from Leanne and Joseph. We are extremely proud of them.”
He added that both officers feared for their lives believing the man had a real gun. Yet, their quick thinking and calm professionalism kept everyone safe.
“Leanne and Joseph exemplify the best of the police service – they deserve all the praise and recognition.”
Nominees for National Police Bravery Awards
PC Payne and PC Konieczny are set to attend the National Police Bravery Awards ceremony in London this July. They are among 77 brave nominees from 39 forces across England and Wales honoured for exceptional courage on and off duty.
