[B]rave and decisive action by a police officer faced with a man brandishing a six-foot metal bar has earned a Chief Constable’s Commendation.
On 4 August 2017, Police Constable Tim Fowkes attended Highfield Avenue in Carlisle following reports of a disturbance.
The reports made no mention of any weapons but PC Fowkes arrived to find himself confronted by a man with a large, metal pole.
With the man making threats towards members of the public and fellow officers, PC Fowkes considered using his taser. However, realising there wasn’t the time to do so accurately and effectively, he instead successfully rugby tackled the man to the ground and detained him.
The man was arrested and charged with a number of offences including possession of an offensive weapon and resisting arrest.
Police Sergeant Andrew Leather said: “Police Constable Fowkes’ willingness to put himself in harm’s way in order to protect his colleagues and members of the public is worthy of great praise and admiration.
“His quick-thinking resolved a tense and difficult situation which had the potential to get out of control.
“He should be justifiably proud of his actions, which do great credit to the Constabulary.”
Police Constable Fowkes said: “I am very proud and surprised to have been put forward for a Chief Constable’s Commendation. I am pleased that I was able to protect the public and my colleagues from coming to harm that night.”
