THE BRAVERY and hard work of Wokingham’s finest police officers was recognised at a commendation ceremony on Wednesday night.
Chief Inspector Rob France, commander of Wokingham Local Police Area (LPA), handed out the awards to constables and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) for their dedication, quick-thinking and compassion in the line of duty.
Among those commended were PC Julie Susel and PCSO Craig Beales who were honoured for their actions and effective use of first aid at the scene of a serious collision. The officers removed an unresponsive man from his vehicles and commenced CPR until his heart restarted, which ambulance staff confirmed saved the man’s life.
Officers Det Con Barry Johns, PC Marcus Burrows and PC Matthew Jones were commended for outstanding teamwork in relation to a burglary in progress in Woodley. The team caught two men loading a stolen safe into a previously stolen vehicle, and secured forensic evidence that edf to the identification of a third offender. A complex investigation revealed links to other offences and all three men were convicted, receiving custodial sentences totalling thirty-two years.
PC Monika Taranczewska was also recognised for her dedication to safeguarding vulnerable children, keeping them safe and reducing the demand on other police resources.
PCs Adam Whelpdale and Ali Robinson were commended for providing excellent support and compassion to a vulnerable girl who was the subject of sexual exploitation and had attempted to end her life, while PCSOs Jackie Daniels and Jason Staveley were recognised for their quick-thinking and actions in preventing a young girl from coming to serious harm.
PCs Tin Wong, Chris Roberts and Gemma Matthews, and PCSOs David Bradbook and Nicola Shepherd were commended for their quick-thinking and teamwork while responding to an incident involving a male threatening suicide.
Deputy LPA Commander Insp Mike Graham was also awarded with a long service medal.
Ch Insp Robert France said: “Policing is sometimes a testing and challenging profession and it takes a special person to take on the unique nature of the job.
“These ceremonies provide a great opportunity to recognise our officers and staff for the extraordinary things they do on a daily basis making Wokingham a safer place in which to live.
“I am very proud of those who have been commended and hope you agree that all the recipients have displayed characteristics and values that represent the finest traditions of British Policing.”
