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Special constables are volunteers who have the same training, uniform and powers as a police officer. They do what they do after a full day at work because they want to make a positive difference.
On Tuesday 17 May, we honoured three of them for their work to try and save a teenager’s life in a dangerous situation. We’ve not been able to talk about the awards until now as there has been a trial ongoing at court.
Special Constables Luke Adams and Meadow Rickards were on patrol in Dudley Road East, Tividale when they were stopped by a taxi driver whose passenger, Kimani Martin, 18, had just been shot.
Despite not knowing the gunman was still in the area, the three got to work.
Luke, a trained medic in his day job, immediately removed the Kimani from the taxi and provided first aid. He called for specific medical help and gave calm instructions to his colleagues.
Luke maintained the airway using a jaw thrust and told his colleagues how to stop the bleeding. He did all this while diagnosing the injuries and relaying information to make sure the right medical care was brought to the scene to give Kimani the best possible chance of survival.
Meadow talked to key witnesses and preserved evidence.
Once paramedics arrived, Luke gave a comprehensive handover and continued to help them.
Kimani, was taken to hospital where doctors confirmed he had been shot at close range by a shotgun. Sadly, he later died of his injuries.
The crime happened in the early hours of 20 June last year.
In June 2022, three men were convicted over the killing in a revenge attack – after we were able to link them to the fatal shooting.
Our homicide detectives collated CCTV, ring door bell and phone record evidence as we quickly connected the group to the killing. It led to two of them being arrested within days and the other – who fled the country – was detained on his return from Pakistan months later.
Both officers did their best for Kimani. They remained calm under extreme pressure, caring for him and trying to give him the best chance of survival.
Chief Constable Sir David Thompson presented Luke with a Royal Humane Society parchment ward and a Chief Constable’s Commendation Award.
Meadow was presented with a Chief Constable’s Award.
If you’re interested in becoming a special constable and making a difference like Luke and Meadow, search WMP Jobs online.