Officer who tackled knifeman recognised for efforts

An off-duty police officer who confronted a knife-wielding man has been recognised for his efforts.

Det Con Scott Swallow, 38, who has served with Suffolk Police for the past six years, had been driving home through Barningham with his son when he came across a disturbance.

He noticed a woman hysterically screaming as a younger man was shouting aggressively and brandishing a knife which the officer was able to quickly remove after intervening.

Swallow's actions were described as professional and brave by Chief Constable Rachel Kearton and he has now been nominated for a national Police Bravery Award.

Swallow and his 15-year-old son Jayden had been travelling home from a football match when they came across the disturbance.

The man with a knife appeared to be heavily under the influence of drugs and alcohol, and Swallow decided to stop his vehicle at a safe distance before calling 999.

Instructing Jayden to stay in the car and stay on the phone with the emergency services, Swallow got out to monitor the situation.

Soon the man advanced toward Swallow, shouting threats, and when a nearby neighbour approached the suspect placing themselves at risk, the officer knew he had to intervene.

"Of course, it would have been easy to drive past," he said.

"But this is my job. Even though I was off-duty, it was no different."

Swallow and the neighbour grappled with the man and during the struggle were able to remove the knife.

They restrained him and waited about 20 minutes for on-duty officers to arrive, but during that time the suspect continued to shout threats and repeatedly attempted to harm himself by headbutting the road.

"My focus was on preventing further injury - to him and to others - while keeping the situation under control," Swallow added.

Swallow was formally recognised for his bravery and professionalism with a Chief Constable Commendation.

Jayden also remained calm throughout the ordeal and was also later awarded a Chief Constable's Certificate of Appreciation for his actions.

Ben Hudson, secretary of Suffolk Police Federation, praised Swallow's actions and said his response "exemplifies the very best of policing".

"Despite the personal risk, he acted decisively, professionally and with public safety at the forefront of his mind," he added.

"His actions undoubtedly helped prevent further harm, and both Scott and his son are a credit to themselves and to Suffolk Police."

Kearton added: "I am incredibly proud of the professionalism and bravery he demonstrated, and of the calm and responsible way his son supported him during such a challenging incident."

Swallow will represent Suffolk Police Federation at this year's Police Federation of England and Wales Bravery Awards in July.

Do you have a story suggestion for Suffolk? Contact us below.

Follow Suffolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.