Shot with a Crossbow, Abandoned by the Media: The Mental Health Crisis Facing Our Police

Not Just a Statistic: The Real Impact of Violence and Trauma on Our Police Officers

A High Wycombe man has been convicted in connection with a serious and violent assault and armed attack involving a crossbow following a comprehensive investigation by Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Unit.

Jason King, 54, of School Close, High Wycombe, pleaded guilty at Aylesbury Crown Court on 31 October to one count of Section 20 grievous bodily harm (GBH) and affray, relating to a serious incident that unfolded on 10 May.

At an earlier hearing on 20 September, King had also pleaded guilty to Section 18 GBH with intent after he shot PC Curtis Foster with a crossbow. Additionally, King admitted to charges of possessing an offensive weapon (a crossbow) and possession of a bladed article. Other charges, including criminal damage and cannabis cultivation, will remain on file.

Violent Incident on School Close

The ordeal began around 18:00 on 10 May, when King became involved in an altercation with a neighbour, a man in his sixties. The confrontation escalated, resulting in King stabbing the man in the stomach. The victim was hospitalised but fortunately discharged the same day after receiving treatment for minor injuries.

When unarmed 999 response team police officers arrived at the scene, King reportedly fired a crossbow at them from his property’s window. As unarmed officers were first on the scene, they withdrew to safety while waiting for firearms support. Shortly after, King emerged from his property, wielding the crossbow, and fired again, hitting PC Foster in the leg.

PC Foster has since recovered fully and returned to active duty. Armed officers, alongside a police dog handler, eventually subdued King, who was shot in the abdomen during the confrontation. King was taken to hospital with potentially life-changing injuries but was discharged 10 days later and placed into police custody.

Officer Welfare Under Strain

The incident reflects a troubling trend of violence faced by Thames Valley Police. Over the past financial year, 236 officers from the force sustained injuries in assaults by members of the public. The force is also grappling with significant mental health challenges, as 559 officers were signed off work due to stress, depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Nick Hind of the Major Crime Unit commended the recovery of both the civilian victim and the injured officer. He also expressed gratitude to the High Wycombe community, stating, “This was a serious incident, and thankfully, the victims in this case, including our officer, have made full recoveries. I would like to thank the local community for their support during and after the incident.”

IOPC Investigation Launched

As is standard protocol in incidents involving police firearms, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the police response, including the actions of firearms officers. King has been remanded into custody and is scheduled to return to Aylesbury Crown Court for sentencing on 31 January 2025.

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I bet that you probably have not heard about his story in the mainstream media. I am also willing to take a bet that you have not heard about the serious concerns many have in the emergency services community about the mental health and well-being of brave police officers and other emergency workers who are putting themselves in harm's way to keep you and your families safe.