Armed suspect asked PC 'do you want to die?'

Bodycam footage shows the "immense courage" of a police officer as he disarmed and detained a suspected armed robber who allegedly threatened to kill him.

PC Spence was first on the scene of a report of a suspected robbery at knifepoint in a shop in Oldham, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said. He has since been commended for his bravery.

When the officer challenged the male, who was suspected to have a knife, he walked towards PC Spence and asked him: "Do you want to die?"

The PC Tasered the suspect after repeatedly telling him to drop the suspected weapon and then chased him, using his baton to disarm him and detain him.

The force praised PC Spence for his "courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to public safety" during the "highly dangerous" incident.

During the pursuit, GMP said the male again confronted PC Spence with the suspected weapon and allegedly made further threats to kill.

PC Spence then used his Pava spray, which GMP said was unsuccessful, before the suspect knocked on the door of a nearby house shouting through to those inside.

Concerned for the safety of the people in the house, PC Spence told the male to step away from the property.

The chase, which took place last October, continued, with PC Spence using his baton to disarm the suspect and arrest him on suspicion of robbery, threats to kill, and possession of a bladed article.

'Outstanding'

GMP said the suspect remained detained in hospital under Section 3 of the Mental Health Act.

The force said PC Spence's actions had ensured the safety of the community and prevented serious harm.

Ch Con Sir Stephen Watson QPM, who commended PC Spence's actions at his recent bravery awards, said: "It is often said police officers run towards danger when others flee.

"PC Spence did exactly this during this incident. His level of selflessness to ensure there was no wider risk to the public, disregarding the risk to himself was outstanding.

"His actions were rightly highlighted for his bravery, and he was deservedly nominated for this award.

"His professionalism on how he dealt with the incident whilst demonstrating immense courage is an example to all officers at GMP and beyond."