Remembering DC Mick Swindells

21 May 2021

West Midlands Police Federation chair Jon Nott has paid tribute to DC Michael (Mick) Swindells on the anniversary of his death.

Mick (44) was killed in the line of duty on 21 May 2004, while trying to arrest a man armed with a knife.

He was attacked on a Tame Valley Canal towpath underneath Gravelly Hill Interchange in Aston, Birmingham, and died from a single stab wound.

The suspect had used the knife earlier in the day to threaten a carpenter repairing a garden gate outside his home, which led to officers spotting the suspect on a park bench then pursuing him along the towpath for more than half a mile.

Mick was posthumously awarded the Queen’s Gallantry Medal for his bravery.

Jon said: “The thoughts of everyone at West Midlands Police Federation are with Michael’s family, friends and colleagues in the police and the Army as we remember his life and service.

“Despite the passing of time, the loss of Mick is still felt keenly today by those who knew him.

“He acted with incredible bravery, putting himself in harm’s way and making the ultimate sacrifice to protect the public.

“It’s important that we keep the memory of Mick alive and remember him, his service and his extraordinary and selfless act of courage.”