A Tauranga Police dog handler, Constable James Muir (Zinny), has today been awarded the Charles Upham Award for Bravery.
Constable Muir was presented the award by the Minister for Police, Hon Judith Collins at a ceremony in Tauranga today. Members of the Charles Upham Trust were in attendance, including Charles Upham's daughter, Mrs Virginia McKenzie.
Constable Muir received the award for his actions following a Police pursuit of a stolen vehicle in Western Bay of Plenty in June 2007. Two teenage males had stolen the car from a rural property, along with a large quality of rifles and ammunition.
During the pursuit, the youths fired at Constable Muir's vehicle. At the end of the pursuit, Constable Muir and his Police dog, Neo, came to the aid of another officer who was being threatened with a rifle. Constable Muir was also threatened by the rifle, which fortunately failed to fire. Constable Muir then released Neo, enabling the officers to catch the two youths without further incident.
His actions were deemed to have "undoubtedly saved the life of his colleague and prevented the potential of harm to others". Constable Muir has already received the top Police award – the Commissioner's Gold Merit Award for Bravery – in relation to the same incident.
New Zealand Police Acting Commissioner, Rob Pope, says he is continually impressed by the examples of extraordinary bravery shown by officers in containing dangerous incidents and protecting people from harm.
"The actions of Constable Muir in facing an armed youth, who had already fired shots, were truly heroic. Police and the public recognise that our line of work is very challenging and this was an example of extraordinary bravery.
"Constable Muir had assessed the extreme danger he and others were facing. His clear thinking and coolness under pressure saved a colleague and prevented potential harm to others at the scene.
"We're proud of him and are very pleased that his actions have been recognised by the Charles Upham Trust."
The Western Bay Area Commander, Inspector Mike Clement, says the local community can also be very proud of Constable Muir's achievements, which are a reflection of the high quality of Police staff serving the Area.
"This Area is both a very challenging and rewarding place to Police," says Inspector Clement.
"Without fail, the Police serving the Western Bay of Plenty are passionate about what they do. They work extremely hard to prevent crime and road trauma, respond quickly when needed and to solve serious crimes when they arise. Many of them often put in long hours to achieve the excellent results they consistently achieve.
"Constable Muir – and in fact, his Police dog Neo as well – are a perfect example of this commitment and dedication.
“The community can be very proud of their achievements, and have great confidence in the quality of the Police staff who serve this area so well.”
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Contact:
Jacky James
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Phone: 027 215 6870