Heroic Police Worker Snags Top Award for Catching Creepy Taxi Predators
Back in September 2020, two men in Canterbury were caught on CCTV making unwanted sexual advances to women in the city centre. The creeps then jumped into a taxi with two more potential victims. But thanks to quick thinking at Kent Police, their run ended fast.
Dispatcher’s Clever Move Helps Nab Suspects
Natalie Harman, working at Kent Police’s Force Control Room in Maidstone, sprang into action. She tracked down the taxi firm and secretly called the driver, instructing him to pull over without alerting the suspects. When police arrived, the men bolted.
But Natalie wasn’t finished. She kept liaising with CCTV operators to pinpoint their location and coordinated their arrest. She also ensured the women’s safety throughout the ordeal.
Natalie Harman Crowned National Control Room Dispatcher of the Year
For her stellar work, Natalie was named Control Room Dispatcher of the Year at the national Control Room Awards – a virtual event celebrating unsung heroes across police, fire, and ambulance services.
“I was speechless to have even been nominated as a finalist, let alone win it,”
said Natalie, who has served Kent Police for 14 years.
“My children watched the ceremony with me and said, ‘We’re so proud of you mummy.’ Words can’t explain how much that meant to me.”
“I want to thank all the amazing people working in control rooms across the emergency services.”
Top Brass Praise Natalie’s Tenacity and Passion
Assistant Chief Constable Nikki Faulconbridge, Head of Central Operations at Kent Police, heaped praise on Natalie:
“Our control room staff face tough situations daily and are vital in protecting the public and helping officers on the ground.
“Natalie’s award is a richly deserved, prestigious accolade that highlights the incredible work she and her colleagues do every day supporting victims and witnesses of crime.”
