Police and ambulance responders to a violent crossbow attack in which a man stabbed someone and shot and officer have been commended for bravery.
In High Wycombe on May 10 last year, Jason King stabbed a member of the public before arming himself with a crossbow and firing at responding officers.
The emergency responders who were able to manage the violent threat and bring the incident to a safe conclusion have now been recognised for their service.
Police constable Curtis Foster and police constable Cameron Parker-Graham both received higher chief’s commendations.
Two armed response officers, the police dog handler, police constable Edward De Glanville, detective sergeant Ben Sarland, Ian Sayer and Ashleigh Davies of South Central Ambulance Service all received chief’s commendations.
The officers and staff were also praised by the Independent Office for Police Conduct for their efforts in preventing further harm and protecting the community of Downley.
PC Foster was struck in the leg by the crossbow when King fired at the responding officers, sustaining a significant injury.
He said: "I am honoured to receive the award, and proud that the work conducted on that day has been recognised.
"As a team we were able to prevent any further members of the public coming to any harm."
PC Parker-Graham added: "It was a very challenging situation that we were faced with, that none of us were expecting when we arrived at work. It is an honour to receive this commendation."
DS Sarl echoed the message of his team, and said: "I am extremely proud of my team and their actions throughout this incident, and what they did is a testament to their bravery and dedication to protecting the public.
"I know for a fact that every single one of them would react in exactly the same way if they were in a similar situation again."
In a hearing at Amersham Law Courts on Wednesday, August 20, King was given an extended sentence of 12 years, consisting of nine years' imprisonment and a further three years on licence.
He was earlier convicted of Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent, section 20 grievous bodily harm, affray, possession of an offensive weapon, namely a crossbow, and possession of a bladed article in a public place.
Senior investigating officer detective inspector Nick Hind, added: “The courage of our officers in dealing with this incident was second to none.
"Their actions prevented what could have been a mass casualty event.
"I am immensely proud of everyone who responded - their professionalism and bravery reflect the very best of Thames Valley Police.”
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