Norwich: PC Stabbed In Police Chase Talks To Heart

17 October 2013, 00:00 | Updated: 17 October 2013, 06:07

A police officer who chased down a dangerous man in Norwich despite being stabbed is up for a National Police Bravery award later.

PC Martin Bentley was one of a number of officers who responded to a domestic in Darrell Place, Norwich in February 2012. It had been reported that a known violent offender had put a statue through a window and driven off.
 
PC Bentley tried to pull the car over but the sped off leading him on a dangerous chase around the city at high speed. Then he got out of the car and ran.
 
As PC Bentley chased the suspect he suddenly turned on him and pulled a knife, threatening to kill him.

He grab the leg of the suspect, who slashed at him with the knife around the neck and shoulder and the hand. But the officer continued to chase him.
 
They managed to corner the offender, who continued to lash out at anyone who came close. With batons drawn the officers eventually overcame the suspect and he was arrested.
 
The wound to PC Bentley’s hand required 16 stitches and skin grafts.
 
The offender was sentenced to nine years and two months in prison for causing grievous bodily harm in the attack on PC Bentley and numerous other offences including blackmail and possession of a firearm.

Hear PC Bentley's story in his own words as he speaks to Heart's Neil Perry:

PC Bentley - Police Bravery Award

Paul Ridgway, Chairman of Norfolk Police Federation said “We are extremely pleased that Martin has been chosen to be nominated for an award for the bravery he showed during this particularly difficult and significant incident. He was chosen from a great number of Norfolk officers who have shown bravery over the last twelve months.  We wish Martin luck in receiving an award at the ceremony.”