Edinburgh police officers 'saved each other' from scissor attack and rabid dog

An Edinburgh police duo "saved each other from serious injury" as they faced an attack by a scissors-wielding criminal and his dog.

PCs Jamie Henderson and Matthew Jeffrey provided back up to colleagues who were dealing with a disturbance in the Prestonfield area of the city. The pair are among those within Police Scotland up for an award.

They chased a man who, along with his bull terrier-type dog, burst out of a property and into a nearby stairwell.

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They managed to stop him from closing the main door, with PC Jeffrey placing his boot in the way despite the dog repeatedly biting it. The animal then bit PC Henderson on the hand, while the man issued a barrage of threats against the pair.

PC Henderson was able to spray the dog – which was being commanded to attack the officers – with a fire extinguisher, forcing it to flee up the stairs. But this only made the male aggressor even angrier.

Armed with scissors, he made a number of attempts to stab both officers, before a Taser was used and he was restrained and arrested.

Their actions “maximised the safety of the public within the common stair,” said CI Neill Whiteside, who nominated them.

He added: “Both police constables saved each other from serious injury, if not worse. They both displayed an astounding ability to adapt to the incident.”

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Police officers in Edinburgh and the Lothians have been hailed for their lifesaving acts of bravery and commitment to their communities. Across Scotland, a total of 29 officers, including constables, sergeants, detectives and inspectors, have been shortlisted in six categories for the Scottish Police Federation’s annual awards which take place this week.

David Threadgold, chair of the Scottish Police Federation, said: “Reading through the nominations for this year’s awards is a humbling experience and demonstrates the extraordinary bravery and commitment shown by our officers.

“The situations dealt with by police serving our communities can sometimes be extremely dangerous, and none of us should ever take what they do for granted.

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“Our annual awards are a moment to recognise those who go above and beyond to keep the public safe with dignity and resolve, before coming back to work to do it all again.

“We are incredibly proud of all the nominees and are grateful to each of them for their amazing achievements. They are a credit to themselves and to Scottish policing.”

Chief Constable Jo Farrell said: “The bravery, dedication, skill and professionalism of our officers is hugely impressive and I thank the Scottish Police Federation for shining a light on some of their outstanding work.

“These awards are an important night in the policing calendar, when we recognise and celebrate our officers for their vital public service.

“I thank all officers and their families for everything they do for policing and our communities and offer warm congratulations to nominees and recipients.”