Cumbria cops battle violent attacker and bag national bravery nod!
Heroic showdown at remote asylum hotel
Two Cumbria Police officers, PC Ruth Coates and PC Michael Doyle, have been nominated for the prestigious Police Bravery Awards 2024. Their courage shone during a terrifying incident on November 12, 2022, at a temporary asylum hotel in a remote Cumbria village, where they contained a violent man causing serious harm.
Violent attack leaves scars, but officers never back down
Arriving after reports of damage and dangerous behaviour, the officers initially found the man calm. But when they moved to arrest him, he tried to escape, sparking a brutal struggle on the stairs. PC Doyle tackled the suspect while PC Coates helped – only for the man to viciously bite PC Coates’ arm, leaving a permanent scar through thick clothing. PC Doyle had to forcibly pry the attacker’s jaw off her.
In a shocking twist, the assailant clamped down on PC Doyle’s finger with such ferocity that he feared losing it. Despite their injuries and the disorienting effects of PAVA spray, the duo refused to let go.
Taser saves the day as backup races to the rescue
PC Coates repeatedly deployed her Taser, freeing PC Doyle and keeping the attacker at bay until reinforcements arrived. The backup set off at full throttle, so dangerously that worn brakes forced officers to use a tree to stop the vehicle. Both officers endured severe bite wounds but stayed resolute in their mission to protect the public.
Top brass praise bravery and resilience
Chief Constable Rob Carden lauded their professionalism and grit during the ordeal, calling their conduct exemplary. Police Federation Chair Ed Russell hailed their bravery and measured response as a shining example of what the UK police force stands for, especially when facing unpredictable, sustained assaults.
The heroic efforts of PCs Coates and Doyle have rightly earned them a spot in the 2024 Police Bravery Awards, spotlighting the high standards of policing in Cumbria.
