Five police officers were recognised for their handling of an incident on Christmas Day, when they demonstrated “exemplary skill” in tackling a high-stress situation.

Three constables, a sergeant and an inspector were awarded letters of good work by the Commissioner of Police, Darrin Simons.

A post on the BPS Instagram account said that officers were sent to a report of a domestic incident in Sandys on December 25.

It added: “The attending officers were confronted by a 22-year-old man who armed himself with a knife and threatened to harm them.

“Despite the threat of imminent danger, the officers demonstrated remarkable composure, courage and adherence to established protocols.

“The team initiated negotiations with the subject as they attempted to de-escalate the situation.

“Despite facing significant challenges, the officers maintained their focus on communication and negotiation, exercising exemplary skill in dealing with such a high-stress scenario.”

The post said that the team’s “commitment to de-escalation and communication remained unwavering”.

It added: “The officers were eventually able to restrain and detain the subject without resorting to significant force, emphasising the effective use of de-escalation techniques.

“This accomplishment is noteworthy as it not only ensured the safety of members of the public but also that no harm came to the officers themselves.”

Officers involved in the incident were constables Adam Mattatall, Denise Taylor, Justina Watson, Sergeant Shawn Broomes and Inspector Andrew Smalling.

A man appeared in court on December 27 in connection with the incident and is due to be sentenced next month.

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