Chief Constable blog - December 2024

The last few weeks have seen a number of awards presented to Suffolk officers, staff and members of the public.

I was privileged to attend the National Police Public Bravery Awards in Sheffield where I accompanied our award winner, Mr. Robert Bray from Ipswich.   These awards honour selfless members of the public who have placed themselves in dangerous situations, protected others, defended communities, prevented crime or actively assisted police.   

Robert Bray was driving along a road in Ipswich last December when he saw some members of the public being confronted by an adult male who was in possession of a hammer. The male attacked property causing damage, and then he saw a female  walking across the road, and he  struck her to the head with the hammer. This was seen by Robert who stopped his vehicle and confronted the offender. Robert exited his vehicle and confronted the male with the hammer who then struck him to the head. 

Robert suffered a serious head injury as a result but fought through that to subdue the offender and hold him securely until police detained him.  The whole evening was truly humbling to hear about all of those selfless members of the public who put themselves in some potentially very dangerous positions. It clearly shows there are very courageous and compassionate people in our communities who will step forward to protect and support those who are in dangerous or difficult situations.

Later in the month I was delighted to host the Constabulary’s Exceptional Policing Awards ceremony which is a fantastic opportunity to recognise the brilliant work of officers, staff and volunteers right across the organisation.   It was a lovely evening with many great stories of courage and success.  The High Sheriff of Suffolk Yvonne Gilchrist-Mason, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Edward Creasey and HHJ Martyn Levett presented a number of awards, along with a number of award sponsors. 

Earlier this month Deputy Chief Constable Rob Jones attended the Lord Ferrers awards in London, and I am proud to say that PC Trevor Spinlove (pictured below) received a national award for leadership at this prestigious event.  The awards are hosted by the Home Secretary to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of policing volunteers.  Trevor has a key role in the training and development of our many Special Constables and supports our police cadet units across Suffolk.  There were over 210 nominations for the awards and this was a great feather in the cap of our outstanding Citizens in Policing team.  Well done Trevor!

This year’s Christmas drink/drug drive campaign has now been launched alongside our fire colleagues and Roadsafe partners, which highlights the risks of drink and drug driving.  This year we are focussing on what happens to the everyday drink driver. This person might have had two or three pints at the pub after work on a Friday night. They could be popping to the shops after having a glass of wine with their dinner.  They think they’re fine to drive, but their ability to assess the road and its risks is significantly reduced. 

Norfolk and Suffolk Constabularies are urging the public to consider #IsYourLicenceWorthIt?  If caught driving over the limit, you could face six months’ imprisonment, be fined an unlimited amount, and be banned from driving for at least a year.   It is so important to note that alcohol and drugs can stay in your system for longer than you may realise. You could still be under the effects of drugs for days after you have consumed them. The message is simple – do not drive under the influence - it is not worth it - not only do you put yourself in danger, you also put the lives of other people at risk.

As 2024 draws to a close,  I would like to say that I have yet again seen so much dedication, care, courage, commitment and warmth demonstrated by my officers, staff and volunteers.  They continue to work tirelessly to help keep our communities safe.   I feel honoured and privileged to lead such a fantastic organisation and thank all my colleagues for their continued support.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all your support to the Constabulary throughout the year and wish each and every one of you a very happy and safe Christmas and best wishes for the new year.