THE 2023 BRAVERY AWARDS
REGION 2
WINNER DURHAM
PC Ryan Murley PC Ryan Murley & HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary Andy Cooke QPM DL
Officer single-handedly confronted two men wanted for double attempted murders leading to their arrest and conviction
On Sunday 18 September 2022, two brothers attended an address armed with knives and an axe. They entered the address and stabbed a pet dog before attacking the male and female occupants, stabbing them multiple times, causing significant injuries. The two suspects were identified and
efforts were underway to locate and arrest them on suspicion of attempted murders. The next day, PC Ryan Murley was called to an address for an unrelated incident. On arrival, it was quickly established that the two wanted and dangerous men were at the property. Whilst awaiting further instructions from the control room on the situation, PC Murley was informed that the men were at the rear of the property, and so, despite being alone, PC Murley took the incredibly brave decision to pursue the suspects without knowing if they were still armed or not.
The men fled the scene, but after a short chase and once in a secluded spot they turned to confront PC Murley. At this point, PC Murley believed that
at least one of the men was carrying a bladed weapon. As he relayed this information to the control room he decided to draw his Taser. Knowing that his Taser would provide him with only one chance to subdue one of the men, PC Murley tried to engage with the men and talk them down. It was at
back up arrived and arrested his brother. “It is a bit of a blur to be honest, but it’s one of those things you go with and your colleagues are never far behind you.” PC Ryan Murley said about the incident. Andy Jackson, Chair of Durham Police
“PC Murley demonstrated tenacity and bravery in confronting these males without a thought for his own safety.”
this moment that one of the men became very aggressive, making multiple threats to PC Murley.
The situation grew incredibly tense, with the aggressive individual even trying to use his brother as a shield, shouting at him to take the Taser so he could then attack PC Murley and knock him out or stab him. However, PC Murley took the brave decision to deploy his Taser at this point and was able to arrest one individual on suspicion of attempted murder before
Federation, commented: “This was clearly a challenging situation for PC Murley. He found himself alone and fully aware of the danger he faced in confronting two males suspected of two attempted murders the previous day. “Without any thought for his own
safety, and whilst outnumbered, he confronted the two males who posed a significant threat. He also believed that at least one of the males was armed with a blade and was aware of their propensity for violence. He remained calm and controlled the situation until the arrival of colleagues. “PC Murley demonstrated tenacity and bravery in confronting these males without a thought for his own safety. His actions led to the detention of two violent individuals and helped keep communities in the area safe from further harm.”
15 | POLICE | AUGUST | 2023
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