Essex Police officer Ian Dibell’s courage recognised by all
The selfless bravery of former Essex Police officer Pc Ian Dibell was recognised at an inquest hearing into his death held at Chelmsford Crown Court on April 8th, 2013.
As the coroner returned a verdict of unlawful killing, colleagues from across Essex Police paused to reflect on the death of a friend and colleague who paid the ultimate price for his courageous intervention against gunman Peter Reeve on July 9th last year.
Pc Ian Dibell
The coroner found that Peter Reeve had killed himself in Writtle, on the morning of July 10th, 2012.
Chief Constable Jim Barker-McCardle said: “The inquest hearing has given us an opportunity to learn in more detail about the courage and bravery of Ian, who despite recognising the danger that he faced, selflessly tackled Peter Reeve to protect others.
“The incident in Clacton last July is a reminder to us all that it is not the uniform that makes a police officer, it is the instinctive sense to do the right thing regardless of the circumstances you are faced with. During what was clearly a fast-moving and dramatic situation, Ian quickly assessed what needed to be done and tackled Peter Reeve, sustaining a fatal injury in the process.
“We remain deeply proud of Ian and the sacrifice he made for the safety of others. He had an incredible devotion to his community and Essex Police and his actions will never be forgotten.”
Nick Alston, Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said the people of Essex would forever remember Pc Dibell, who had acted courageously and selflessly.
Mr Alston added; “Ian Dibell died trying to protect the community he served proudly as an Essex Police officer. Even though he was off duty he acted with bravery and selflessness, attempting to calm a dangerous situation.
“Police constable Ian Dibell’s family, friends and colleagues, and the people of Essex, should never forget Ian or his sacrifice. He represented the very best tradition of British policing.”
