Bravery award for PC who was bitten while making an arrest

A POLICE constable who was bitten while trying to arrest a suspected shoplifter has been presented with a bravery award.

PC Terri Watson was off duty in Doncaster when she saw security staff struggling to restrain a suspected shoplifter.

She introduced herself as a police officer and tried to persuade the woman to comply, but when the suspect refused to co-operate and bit her hand, PC Watson arrested her.

South Yorkshire Police said the officer showed “great courage and bravery” to come to the assistance of members of the public.

PC Watson was among nine individuals and two teams to be presented with awards for their outstanding contribution to policing over the last 12 months in Doncaster (pictured).

Deputy Chief Constable Dawn Copley, South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Dr Alan Billings and Mayor of Doncaster Ros Jones presented the awards earlier this month at the Keepmoat Stadium.

Acting Det Sgt Chris Lindley was presented with the Investigation of the Year award for building a solid case against an offender suspected of three targeted burglaries, in which large quantities of gold jewellery were stolen.

Chief Superintendent Richard Tweed, Doncaster Commander, who also attended, said: “This is the fourth year we have celebrated the hard work of our officers and staff in Doncaster, and it’s important their dedication to the job is recognised and awarded, as I want all my officers and staff to know they are valued and appreciated and the work they do to protect the public doesn’t go unnoticed.”

Dr Billings said he was “humbled” to hear the “extraordinary accounts of dedication and bravery” of his local police.

“It is right that we remind ourselves how much good work goes on day and night, much of it unnoticed. Without it South Yorkshire would be a far less safe place in which to live and work,” he added.

Police Officer of the Year went to Sgt Dave Jones, Detective of the Year went to DC Rob Hunt and Student Officer of the Year went to PC Terry Davidson. Sgt Steve Butler picked up the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding work as a Doncaster officer over 25 years.