PC praised by judge (From Warrington Guardian)

PC praised by judge

A BRAVE police officer who confronted a samurai-wielding drunk threatening his partner has been praised by a senior judge.

PC Andrew Connor was called in when Jordan Kennerley, 22, lost control and started trashing his girlfriend's home in Rudheath.

Kennerley, formerly of East Avenue, Rudheath, admitted affray and criminal damage. He was given a two-year community order, including 100 hours' community punishment at Chester Crown Court last week.

The defendant's partner Emma Hammond alerted police, worried for her safety and that of their 10-month-old daughter.

PC Connor found Kennerley stripped to the waist and brandishing a 3 or 4ft samurai sword.

Clearly agitated, Kennerley shouted at him: "Come and get it."

The officer could also see another samurai sword lying on a bed nearby.

PC Connor drew a CS gas canister and sprayed it at Kennerley's face.

He then went back downstairs and ushered Kennerley's girlfriend and the child into his police car.

After calling the armed response unit, he negotiated with Kennerley for 10 minutes, persuading him to relinquish the sword and be handcuffed.

Judge Elgan Edwards, Recorder of Chester, praised PC Connor's actions as 'very brave', issued the officer with a Crown Court commendation and recommended that his conduct be brought to the attention of Cheshire Chief Constable Peter Fahy.