Pcs who snared gunman given bravery awards
A POLICE officer who had a gun pointed at his head by a violent thug was today being handed a bravery award for saving his and a colleague’s life.
Pc Simon Toft Tasered Steven Bowen when the burglar aimed the gun at his head and chest during the terrifying incident in Stockport.
Armed with a baton and Taser, Pc Toft and Pc Michelle Gee were called to the property to reports of a burglary at the end of last year.
When they arrived, Bowen ran down the stairs, and pointed the gun at Pc Toft.
The quick-thinking officer shouted ‘Taser, Taser’, and fired it at Bowen, which made him collapse to the floor.
This gave the officers the opportunity to restrain and arrest him for aggravated burglary and Section 16a of the Firearms Act.
The fearless constables will both be handed bravery awards during a ceremony at Hough End.
Ahead of receiving his award, Pc Toft said: “At the time of the incident, I believed the firearm to be real and had genuine concerns for our safety. Thankfully, nobody was injured and the offender has now been jailed. Receiving this award is an honour and I’m grateful for the recognition.”
Pc Gee said: “Having your work and achievements recognised formally is important and I’m very grateful to receive this award.”
Deputy Chief Constable Ian Pilling will present the duo with their awards.
Mr Pilling said: “Simon and Michelle were confronted with what must have been a very frightening situation.
“The officers remained in control, and their bravery and logical thinking resulted in an arrest with no injury to any party. Both officers are most deserving of this award, and I am extremely proud to have them serving in GMP.”
Bowen, 36, was sentenced to seven years for aggravated burglary and Section 16a of the Firearms Act.