Stabbed police officer praised

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A Thames Valley police officer - stabbed on duty - is warded for his bravery

Det Con Luke Simms of Thames Valley Police, pictured with Chief Constable Sara Thornton and Home Secretary Teresa May, was highly commended on Wednesday 23rd February 2011, for his bravery after being stabbed whilst dealing with an armed robbery in Bracknell last year.

He spent a week in hospital, four of which was spent in intensive care, after the knife used by his attacker, 28-year-old Kes Nattriss, of no fixed abode, entered the detective’s left abdomen area, cutting through his spleen, his diaphragm and puncturing his lung. His injuries meant he was off work for more than three and a half months and, when he did return in September 2010, he was on restricted duties for a period of time. However, he has since returned to his full duties working in the Priority Crime Team in Bracknell.

Speaking at the award ceremony, where a total of 30 people were recognised for their hard work and dedication by Chief Constable Sara Thornton, Home Secretary Teresa May praised Det Con Simms’s actions and paid tribute to Thames Valley Police on the whole for continuing to keep local communities safe.

She said: “It is vitally important that we recognise the tremendous dedication of our police. The courage shown by DC Simms and his colleagues is just one example of the bravery that takes place day in and day out in Thames Valley Police and in forces across the country.

“I want to thank the police in Thames Valley and the officers and staff serving all our communities for their hard work and commitment. We must never forget all that they do to keep us safe.”

These comments were echoed by the Chief Constable who told the audience of police officers, police staff, police volunteers, and their families, that she was delighted to present Det Con Simms with his higher commendation, as it reflected his bravery and dedication to Thames Valley Police.

She said: “His brave actions could have cost him his life and shows the dangers police officers face every day while they serve and protect the public. Thanks to Luke’s actions, and those of his colleagues who located the man responsible for injuring him and committing the robbery, a very dangerous man has received a substantial prison sentence.”

Speaking after the ceremony, Det Con Simms said:” I am overwhelmed, but very grateful to receive this prestigious commendation. The incident last year not only affected me but also my family, whose support has been tremendous throughout. I am also very grateful for the continuing support from colleagues at Thames Valley Police. Being awarded this commendation helps bring me closure on what has been a very difficult time."