Lincolnshire heroes recognised for exceptional bravery at police awards

In an award ceremony last night, officers and a member of the public were awarded for exceptional acts of selflessness, compassion and bravery.

The awards went to recipients who had gone above and beyond, enriching the service that Lincolnshire Police provide to the county.

Lincolnshire Police Chief Constable Bill Skelly praised those who had excelled and awards were presented by John Lockwood, Deputy Lieutenant of Lincolnshire.

Temporary Detective Inspector Tim Wilkinson

Tim Wilkinson receiving his award. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Temporary Detective Inspector Tim Wilkinson received a Chief Constable’s Commendation for his investigation into an historic sex offender after being described as “resilient, tenacious and caring”.

On the May 20, 2016, John Edward Bates was handed a 20 year sentence for a series of sex offences that took place in the 70s and 80s.

The force said the result that would not have been possible without the dedication of DI Wilkinson.

He was described by one of the victims of this case as “an outstanding officer” who did “an outstanding job”.

Another victim said: “Thank you for the empathetic and considerate way you dealt with me as a reluctant witness.

“You have been the catalyst in lifting a 33 year burden off my shoulders.”

Detective Superintendent Rick Hatton added: “These comments articulate the exemplary investigation and victim care shown.”

Sergeant David Copinger and PC James Latto

David Copinger receiving his award. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

James Latto receiving his award. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Sergeant David Copinger and PC James Latto received Royal Humane Society Resuscitation Certificates.

On the February 7 a man was arrested and taken to Skegess Police Station where he suffered a medical episode.

He had become non-responsive and stopped breathing at which point Sergeant Copinger and PC Latto began CPR.

Superintendent Paul Timmins said:

“They remained calm in a highly emotional and stressful situation, acting in a controlled and confident manner without hesitation to preserve a life.”

Grzegorz Pacho, Sergeant Iain Mclvor and PC Thomas Smith

Grzegorz Pacho receiving his award. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Thomas Smith receiving his award. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Iain McIvor receiving his ward. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Grzegorz Pachowill received a Public Appreciation Award and Sergeant Iain Mclvor and PC Thomas Smith received a Chief Constable’s Commendation.

The three men were recognised for their brave, decisive actions following the report of a firearm which was believed to have been fired within a house in Pinchbeck.

Mr Pacho, a taxi driver, instead of driving away after being threatened with the firearm, called the police and remained outside monitoring the situation.

Sergeant Mclvor and PC Smith arrived on scene, very quickly taking control of the situation, managing a high risk incident and a crime scene.

A coordinated search uncovered an imitation M16 Assault Rifle.

Superintendent Timmins said:

“Sgt Mclvor, PC Smith and Mr Pacho placed themselves in a dangerous position. Their bravery resulted in a positive outcome.”

PC Matthew Harvey, PC James Milligan, PC Meela O’Neill and PC Stephen Robinson

Meela O’Neill receiving her award. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Stephen Robinson receiving his award. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

PC Matthew Harvey, PC James Milligan, PC Meela O’Neill and PC Stephen Robinson received a Chief Constable’s Commendation for their part in the search for a missing woman in June 2016.

The woman was found in the Glinton area of Cambridgeshire where she was threatening to jump from a railway bridge.

Putting their own safety in jeopardy, James and Stephen pulled her to safety with Meela and Matthew rapidly assisting to restrain her further.

Chief Superintendent Nicola Mayo said: “This was a precarious and challenging incident, where the collective actions of the four officers prevented this vulnerable individual from suffering serious injury or death.”