City of London Police Detective Sergeant Joby Reeve was selected for the ‘Principal Bravery Award’ by the Sheriffs of the City of London sitting at the Old Bailey. The Award was presented on October 7, at the Annual Dinner of the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals (WCoSP) held at The Mansion House, London by Alderman and Sheriff Prof Michael Mainelli and Sheriff Christopher Hayward. Pictured left to right are WCoSP Master Michael Barley and Joby Reeve.
The award dates from after the July 7, 2005 London Tube and bus terror bombings, to recognise outstanding acts of bravery by UK individuals. The City of London Sheriffs annually sought nominations for members of the public who have, without thought for their own safety, acted to confront danger in a selfless and inspirational way.
On Saturday August 11, 2018 when DS Joby Reeve, while off duty, witnessed a man being robbed by a gang. When he reached the roadside, with no hesitation, he launched himself at the suspects on a moped, he seized and dragged the pillion off and, as he grabbed the suspect in a bear hug to detain him, he, the rider and the bike all fell to the ground. What was taking place was a four-handed moped robbery.
As Reeve and the suspect stood up, one of the robbers drew a knife, a blade about eight inches long, with the clear intention to stab Reeve in the chest and kill him. In a split-second judgement, DS Reeve kicked the suspect in the torso, which created enough distance at the crucial moment to send the knife into the top of his thigh instead. DS Reeve showed conspicuous bravery at the risk of his own life, stood his ground, the only thing between the suspects and their original victim and forced their retreat.
In the minutes after, waiting for the police and ambulance, Reeve had applied a bandage to his own wound, refused to give up his position and gave clear updates about his injury and what had occurred, despite losing blood. He didn’t hesitate to put his life on the line for a stranger; he was without any PPE or a radio. It was an entirely selfless act. Reeve demonstrated extraordinary courage, putting the lives of others before his own without a second thought. His actions were an inspiration in the highest traditions of the City of London Police.
Reeve has also received a Police Federation of England and Wales bravery award.
About the Sheriffs’ Award
It’s launched annually each February with the winner selected by the Sheriffs in the autumn. As in previous years, the WCoSP says, it received a substantial number of high-quality nominations. As part of this award DS Reeve will receive a cheque for £2,500. His name will be inscribed on a Board of Honour and placed in a Book of Honour, which are both on permanent display within the Central Criminal Court, The Old Bailey. This award is open to nominations from the general public, the business community, emergency services and the armed forces.
