A pair of officers intervened in a life-threatening domestic incident and disarmed an attacker mid-assault.

Early morning, May 2025, police received a call reporting an ongoing domestic incident, with two females heard screaming on the line. PCs Clover and Edwards, a tutor and student officer on mobile patrol nearby, responded immediately.

Further information indicated that someone inside the address was being stabbed.

On arrival, the officers were met by individuals fleeing the property. Recognising the urgency and immediate threat to life, they made a split-second decision to enter the address without delay, despite not being equipped with Taser or specialist protective equipment.

Upon forcing entry, they were confronted with a chaotic and blood-filled scene. Inside, the suspect was standing over a victim and actively striking them to the head with a knife.

Without hesitation, both officers crossed the threshold and engaged the suspect. PC Clover deployed PAVA spray while issuing clear and forceful commands, driving the suspect backwards. At the same time, PC Edwards moved in and took control of the suspect’s wrist, successfully forcing the knife from his hand and onto the floor.

The suspect was quickly detained, and the immediate threat to the victim was brought to an end without injury to either officer.

The incident was fast-moving, highly volatile and presented a clear risk of serious harm or fatality. The officers’ immediate entry and decisive actions interrupted an ongoing knife attack and prevented further injury.

PC Clover and PC Edwards demonstrated exceptional composure, coordination and instinctive action under extreme pressure. Their response ensured a swift and safe resolution to a critical incident, with a clear focus on protecting life.

This was particularly notable given that PC Edwards was still within his tutorship period, yet acted with confidence and effectiveness in a situation of significant danger.

Their actions reflect the highest standards of policing and highlight the importance of decisive intervention in protecting the most vulnerable at moments of greatest need.

Norfolk Police Federation Chair Andy Symonds said, “I am in awe of my colleagues Pc Clover and Edwards who exemplified exactly what makes British policing the best in the world. They responded and saved lives and placed themselves in serious danger with just body amour, PAVA and a baton.

“No Taser, no firearm like many other officers have around the world. These officers ran towards danger with only one thought, protecting the victim and public. They showed extreme bravery and are the best of us. I know everyone in Norfolk including the public will be thankful and proud that we officers of this calibre serving the community. Simply the best.”

Chief Constable Paul Sanford said: “PCs Clover and Edwards demonstrated the very best of policing during dangerous and challenging circumstances. Faced with an immediate and life‑threatening situation, they made a courageous decision to put themselves in harm’s way to protect a victim. Their actions that morning were instinctive, decisive and selfless, and they undoubtedly prevented serious harm.

“What makes this incident more remarkable is the calm professionalism and teamwork shown under pressure, particularly by PC Edwards, who was still within his tutorship period. Both officers showed exceptional bravery, composure and commitment to protecting the most vulnerable, and their nomination for the Police Bravery Awards is thoroughly deserved.”