Brave PC pursued offender after he assaulted her
THE bravery of a South Yorkshire Police officer who pursued an offender after he assaulted her was one of a number of awards recognising the work of Barnsley staff at this year’s annual awards.
PC Sarah Botham was presented with a bravery award by District Commander Chief Superintendent Tim Innes on 9 November in the Town Hall.
PC Botham had pursued a car identified as being involved in multiple shoplifting incidents in August.
On blue lights, PC Botham stopped in front of the car and approached the driver. The man grabbed her, before assaulting her, putting his hands on her throat and preventing her from arresting him.
The offender broke free but PC Botham ran after him. As she caught up with the man, he assaulted her again, causing minor injuries which required hospital treatment.
Chief Supt Innes said: “Despite her injuries, PC Botham managed to arrest the man, along with the help of two members of the public. She showed exceptional tenacity and courage in dealing with this incident and has received praise from members of the public and her colleagues for her courageous actions. She is an absolute credit to South Yorkshire Police.”
Acting Sergeant Matt Wood was presented with the Community Service Award for his work in tackling anti-social behaviour and child safety.
Sergeant Helen Scothern took home the Crawford Roebuck Trophy, while PC Adam Hodgkinson was given the Don Betton Award.
The Continuous Improvement Award went to Sergeant Penny Rodgers, the Manager of the Year was named as Inspector Julie Mitchell and the Team Award went to the Barnsley Enquiry Desk.
And PC Paul Davies, PC Nasar Gulzar, PC David Whittaker, PC John Crawford and PC Malgorzata Malinowska were given District Commander’s Commendations.
“These awards show just some of the fantastic work our officers are doing in Barnsley,” Chief Supt Innes added. “Every day they carry out extremely brave tasks and are faced with difficult situations which they overcome to ensure members of the public are protected and Barnsley is kept a safe place to live.”