Police Bravery Awards 2024: Celebrating PS Adam Skelsey

PS Adam Skelsey was nominated for a Police Bravery Award this year for relentlessly pursuing a recognised wanted suspect despite being off duty with no protective equipment, and after being assaulted multiple times.

 Due to his unwavering determination, the suspect was eventually detained and received a 16-week sentence for the offences and assault.

You can read PS Skelsey’s full nomination on the Police Federation website here: www.polfed.org/events/police-bravery-awards-2024/warwickshire/.

Earlier this month, the Police Federation celebrated extraordinary acts of courage carried out by 102 police officers (and a police dog) from 39 police forces across England and Wales.

Each year, PolFed are humbled to receive nominations for officers across 43 force areas - officers who have put the safety of others before themselves. From running into burning buildings, wading into deep waters, tackling armed offenders, being shot at, stabbed, driven at, the list goes on.

Every officer recognised at the Police Bravery Awards is an inspiration and the awards ceremony (sponsored by Police Mutual for over 10 years) is a way to pay credit to their dedication to duty in the presence of senior officials in government and policing.

Deputy Chief Constable Alex Franklin-Smith (who attended the ceremony along with Andy Morrissey, Warwickshire Police Federation Vice Chair, and Philip Seccombe, Police and Crime Commissioner) commented:

“As a force, we’re so proud of PS Adam Skelsey.

“Whilst he didn't win the regional award, the act of courage and bravery he showed in apprehending an offender whilst off duty was quite remarkable, and testament to his commitment and dedication to keep the public safe."

Andy Morrissey, Warwickshire Police Federation Vice Chair, said,

“The Warwickshire Police Federation are delighted to support these awards each year, and we see so many brilliant acts of bravery carried out by Warwickshire officers every single day.

“They are willing to put themselves in significant danger to protect members of the public and do so calmly, professionally and effectively.

“Adam has showed great resilience and put himself at great risk to keep the public safe and bring offenders to justice for their actions.

“This clearly shows that cops are cops 24/7. Even when off duty, officers are always doing the right thing to stop offenders from escaping justice even at the risk of their own safety.

“PS Skelsey’s relentless drive to apprehend the male on his day off, even in the face of assault and without protective equipment or a radio, exemplifies his extraordinary dedication to policing and protecting the public.”