Brave detective to pick up award after rushing to aid of colleague being assaulted

A Cleveland Police officer was single crewed in a squad car when he responded to an in Middlesbrough resulting in a chase before suspect started kicking the pursuing PC.

DC Carl Brayfield happened to drive past the scene, saw a conflict going on and raced to help his colleague.

The suspect ran up a narrow set of stairs to an upstairs flat and the officer followed him, attempting to get him under control and minimise the risk of harm to the public.

DC Brayfield said: “The suspect was being aggressive straight away with my colleague. After giving multiple warnings to the suspect, he Tasered him, but [it] didn’t connect and my colleague ended up getting kicked; he started going backwards. I managed to catch him and pull him forwards.

“As I was doing that, the suspect took the opportunity to strike me over the head with a drawer that had a metal bottom on it. I didn’t notice the blood straight away. But then we got the man on the floor, got him in a hold and my face was just pouring blood.”

The suspect continued to fight the PC, who called for assistance from colleagues. The suspect needed further physical restraint and was PAVA sprayed before being detained.

DC Brayfield was taken to hospital to receive stitches on the 4cm laceration on his head.

The suspect was detained and sectioned under the Mental Health Act.

Cleveland Police Federation Chair Stephen Williams-Reader said: “Once again this incident shows how police officers confront danger when others might turn the other way.

“The officers displayed great courage and personal resilience in dealing with a violent suspect in a confined space.
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“The PC took prompt action in attempting to get the suspect under control, while Carl displayed exemplary support to his colleague, preventing his colleague from injury despite getting injured himself.

“Their actions were in the best interests of the people of Cleveland and truly demonstrate the values of Cleveland Police officers. They are very deserved winners of these Awards.”

DC Brayfield will attend the first ever Cleveland Police Federation Bravery Awards on March 30.

At the event a winner will be announced who will travel to London for the National Police Federation Bravery Awards in July.