Probationary officers recognised over response to chemical assault

Probationary police officers subjected to a chemical assault in Maidstone and an off-duty constable who came to the aid of a woman who attempted to take her own life are among those who have been honoured at a commendation awards ceremony.

On 17 March 2024, a man threw a bottle of an unknown white powder in the faces of four officers called to a disturbance at an address in Knightrider Street, Maidstone.

These included PCs Jake Lunn, Kam Przybylzki and Umesh Limbu who had only recently started their careers with Kent Police.

Despite two of the officers being temporarily blinded, the offender was successfully detained and the scene secured to prevent any possible harm to members of the public.

All four were recognised for their professionalism, tenacity and bravery, at a recent Divisional Commander’s Awards ceremony, held at the Kent Police College.

Chief Superintendent Neil Loudon, who along with The Kent High Sheriff, Dr Gillian Fargher, presented a total of 65 Certificate of Merit awards during the ceremony, said: ‘These officers carried out their duties with absolute diligence and professionalism, whilst under incredible duress. 'To experience such a challenging and unpredictable situation whilst so young in service and perform in the manner they did was outstanding.’ 

Life saving

Others who received awards included PC Penny Shirley, who on Tuesday 13 February 2024 was off-duty at London Victoria train station, when she intervened to support a woman amid a mental health crisis and who required immediate first aid.

The woman was unconscious and unresponsive on the floor of a toilet cubicle and suffering significant injuries.

PC Shirley administered emergency first aid, using clothing to stem bleeding, whilst relaying important information to ambulance staff.

When the woman regained consciousness and made attempts to leave the scene, PC Shirley provided a calming presence until medical crews arrived.

A few weeks later, patrols were called to a distressed and confused woman who was in a precarious position on a road bridge above the A21. 

PC Samuel Kelly, along with a colleague and his sergeant worked quickly to gain her trust, kneeling to her level and engaging in an extremely caring way to try and keep her calm.

Using ladders and ropes, a Kent Fire and Rescue Service crew then worked with the officers to bring her to safety. 

Ch Supt Loudon added: ‘Police officers are often first at the scene to assist with vulnerable people in a time of crisis. 'PC Shirley, along with PC Kelly and his colleagues have typified the very best of what the public expect from a police officer; actively stepping in, taking control, and preserving life.’

Kindness, consideration and understanding

Awards were also presented to officers for their determination and diligence in bringing offenders to justice.

DS Adam Ferguson oversaw a rape investigation which involved a victim who was worried she would not be believed and who lacked trust in any action being taken.

There were evidential challenges throughout the investigation, which spanned several years, and which threatened the case’s progression.

However, DS Ferguson championed the victim’s voice and made representations to ensure charges were accepted by the Crown Prosecution Service.

He worked tirelessly to secure guilty verdicts at court and the victim later wrote of the ‘kindness, consideration and understanding’ he had shown towards her to help guide her through an extremely difficult and distressing situation and ensure justice was served.

Chief Supt Loudon added: ‘I am incredibly proud to lead such a dedicated team of officers and staff. There are countless other examples of their courage, bravery and commitment in keeping the public safe and ensuring victims remain at the heart of everything we do. ‘While some may say they are simply doing their jobs, police officers, like everyone else, face the daily pressures of life. Their work goes beyond just a job and they face immense challenges and make significant sacrifices to ensure our communities remain safe. ‘They must balance spending time with their families, managing personal responsibilities, whilst maintaining their own well-being, all the while protecting vulnerable members of the community and responding to emergencies at a moment’s notice.’