In February 2024, during proactive patrols in Walsall, Police Sergeant Mitchell Bull and his colleagues came across a vehicle parked suspiciously in Reservoir Place.

What began as a routine welfare check quickly spiralled into a violent and life threatening incident.

The driver appeared to be asleep at the wheel. Concerned for his safety, PS Bull approached the vehicle and immediately noticed signs of possible drug use.

His intention was simply to ensure the man was safe, but when the driver awoke and lowered the window, it became clear that he was under the influence of illegal substances and posed a significant risk if he attempted to drive.

As PS Bull questioned him, the man’s explanation did not sit right. A subtle nod to PC Kidd signalled his concern, prompting his colleague to move in support. Within moments, the situation escalated without warning.

When PS Bull attempted to detain the driver under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, the man refused to comply, suddenly accelerated forward, and trapped his colleague between the suspect’s car and the police vehicle. At the same time, the driver’s door crushed his left leg, pinning him in place.

He later described the moment as surreal, recalling the helplessness he felt as the engine revved and the pressure on his leg intensified. Both officers were in immediate danger, with no clear way to free themselves.

Despite the pain and shock, PS Bull’s composure held. Realising that his attempts to stop the driver from inside the vehicle were failing, he pleaded with the man to reverse.

Against all expectation, the driver eventually complied, reversing the car and dragging PS Bull along the road before freeing him. Injured and struggling to move, he managed to drag himself onto the pavement, narrowly avoiding being run over.

Even then, his instinct to protect others did not falter. Seeing the driver attempting to flee, he drew and discharged hit Taser, striking the offender’s arm. Although the discharge did not fully incapacitate the man, he continued to act with determination despite his injuries.

With ligament damage to his left leg and multiple grazes, he immediately turned his attention to his colleague. Limping over, he joined another officer in providing first aid to his colleague who had been hit and was in severe pain with injuries to both legs.

PS Bull remained with his team until medical help arrived, placing their welfare above his own.

He required nearly a month off work and several months of restricted duties during his recovery. His colleague faced an even more difficult journey, dealing with the physical and psychological trauma of the incident.

Tragically, his injuries were so severe that he will be medically retired from the force.

Thanks to the swift information passed to the Major Crime Team and supporting units, the suspect was later arrested and sentenced to five years and seven months in prison for multiple offences, including assault and drug supply.

West Midlands Federation Chair Jess Davies said: “PS Bull acted in the finest traditions of policing, putting his life on the line to serve and protect the public, but also to do his utmost to help a colleague who was in danger. He was a very worth winner of the West Midlands Police Bravery Award.

“As a Federation, we congratulate Mitchell on his nomination for the national Police Bravery Awards. He is a very humble man, but deserves recognition for his bravery, determination and commitment to policing.”

Chief Superintendent Sam Batey, Walsall Commander, said: "Sergeant Bull and his colleague attended this incident out of concern for a member of public. However, the individual's unpredictable behaviour quickly escalated, presenting a serious and immediate risk to officer safety.

“Incidents like this underline the reality of policing - officers stepping into dangerous situations, prepared at any moment to protect others including their colleagues and often at significant personal risk.

“Despite being injured, Mitchell remained composed and decisive acting swiftly to prevent further harm to others before administering first aid to his colleague under immense pressure.

“His actions reflect courage, professionalism and the very best standards of policing. He is thoroughly deserving of recognition."