Officer who stopped savage knife attack nominated for national police bravery award

The incident occurred last year on Monday, September 30, 2013, just after midnight when a Lancaster University student made contact with the police to report that she had been locked in her bedroom by ex-partner Gary Davies, who was threatening to hurt her with a kitchen knife.

PC Dave Pinnington, a uniformed response officer in Lancaster and Morecambe, arrived at the scene, and realising that the young woman was in imminent danger, he forced entry to the bedroom.

As he entered the room he found Davies repeatedly stabbing the young woman with a knife.

He was able to drag him away from the victim, disarm him and keep him restrained until other officers arrived.

The victim sustained serious lacerations to her arm and a wound to her neck, which fortunately missed her vital arteries.

Davies was sentenced to eight years imprisonment after pleading guilty earlier this year at Preston Crown Court to Section 18 wounding with intent and false imprisonment.

PC Pinnington has already received recognition for his bravery and selfless actions in this incident and has received a Chief Constable’s commendation and was awarded the William Garnett Cup 2014, given to the police officer deemed to have performed the most gallant deed of the year.

PC Dave Pinnington said: “This incident highlights the dangers posed to victims of domestic violence and also the unpredictability of situations that police officers attend.”

Chief Constable Steve Finnigan said: “The swift, selfless and extremely brave response exhibited by PC Dave Pinnington to the report of an on-going serious domestic assault where a young woman was being subjected to a vicious knife attack, without doubt saved her life.”

Rachel Baines, Lancashire Police Federation Branch Chairman, said: “The dedication and courage shown by this officer is a credit to the Constabulary, and worthy of the highest recognition.

“The nomination recognises his courage, determination and commitment to helping the public we serve and highlights the risks that police officers often have to take.”

Stephen Mann, CEO, Police Mutual, said: “Every day, police officers across the country face incredibly difficult and dangerous situations, acting with real heroism to protect the lives of others.

“All of the officers nominated for an award have shown great dedication to their duty and remarkable courage.

“Police Mutual is honoured to continue our sponsorship of the Police Bravery Awards for the sixth consecutive year and we give our sincere thanks to the men and women who keep us all safe.”