A dedicated off-duty detective who sprang out of bed to break up a fight on her street involving a man wielding a Taser has been nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards 2025.

On 21 May 2023, an off-duty detective constable from Lancashire Police was at home in bed asleep, when she was awoken by the sound of a disturbance on the street outside.

She rushed to look out of the window and saw two men fighting. The DC noticed the main aggressor was now holding a device in his hand, thought to be a Taser, which he pointed at the second male and fired. He fell onto the floor in a state of incapacitation.

She rushed outside in her pyjamas and slippers taking only her mobile phone. As she ran outside, she could see both men continuing to fight.

Fearing for the safety of the male who had been “tasered”, she jumped into the middle of the fight. She grappled with the male armed with a Taser, trying to avoid punches from both men as they continued to try and fight each other.

Due to the nature of the fight, she was struck several times either intentionally or unintentionally. Regardless, she was able to isolate the main aggressor, pinning him to the ground.

Now, with some degree of control, she issued instruction for the other man to back away. Other members of the public were arriving to see what was going on.

The DC gave clear guidance for them to call the police, identifying herself as a police officer requiring assistance.

A short time later, no doubt a period which seemed an eternity, help arrived from other local police officers.

She handed over the detained male to her colleagues and secured the recovery of the Taser which had fallen onto the floor during her attempt to restrain the male.

Lancashire Police Federation Secretary Stuart Parry said: “After being involved in partnership working some years ago with her prior to her joining the police service, knowing her work ethic and commitment to serving Lancashire’s communities, it is no surprise to me she finds herself as Lancashire’s nomination for PFEW’s Bravery Awards.

“Her actions whilst off duty were selfless, above and beyond, putting herself in grave danger without PPE. She displays unwavering dedication to her role as a police officer and this act of bravery is another example of her commitment to policing and putting the communities of Lancashire first. She is a credit to Lancashire Constabulary.”

Lancashire Constabulary Chief Constable Sacha Hatchett said: “Her actions that night were brave, selfless, and quick thinking, displaying huge bravery in the face of a dangerous and violent situation. Doing this off duty and without any of her protective equipment, she went above and beyond to protect others putting their safety before her own.

“She is a worthy nominee and a credit to the force.”