In the quiet early hours of the morning, when most people are winding down or sound asleep, two off-duty Southend police officers displayed immense bravery that has earned them commendations from the Chief Constable himself.
Sergeant Alex Farr and PC Sam Hilbery had just completed a night shift when they encountered a situation that demanded quick thinking, fearless action, and an unwavering commitment to duty — even when that duty had technically ended.
It was around 2am when Alex and Sam passed the Sainsbury’s store on West Street in Rochford. What should have been a peaceful journey home quickly escalated into a high-stakes confrontation. They noticed the store’s door was open — something that instantly raised alarm bells. Their instincts were spot on.
As they stopped to investigate, a man clad in black with a balaclava and a bag emerged. The sight of him waving a crowbar confirmed their fears — this was no ordinary passer-by.
With remarkable courage, the two officers sprang into action. Despite being unarmed and off-duty, they gave chase and attempted to detain the man. A fierce struggle followed. Sam managed to grab the suspect’s crowbar-wielding arm, while Alex secured the other. As they wrestled with the man, Sam managed to call 999 for urgent backup.
The situation intensified when a female accomplice arrived, launching a violent attempt to free the man. She tried to strangle Sam and even reached for the crowbar that had fallen during the struggle. Unfazed, Sam identified herself as a police officer, prompting the woman to flee — but not for long. On-duty colleagues arrived just in time to ensure both suspects were arrested.
The aftermath saw justice served: the man was convicted of burglary and possessing an offensive weapon, and the woman for assaulting a police officer.
Yet for Alex and Sam, the recognition — while appreciated — was not something they sought.
“It was dangerous, but police officers do that every day. It’s just that we did it off duty,” said Alex with characteristic modesty.
Chief Constable Harrington’s words captured the sentiment of the force and the public alike: “Sergeant Alex Farr and PC Sam Hilbery are highly deserving of their commendations, awarded for their exceptional bravery, quick thinking and unwavering commitment to public safety.”
Their courage under pressure is a shining example of the selfless nature of policing — a powerful reminder that for officers like Alex and Sam, the call of duty never truly ends.