Armed officer who gave first aid to murdered Wolverhampton great-grandfather nominated for special award for his 'compassion and empathy'
The armed officer who gave emergency first aid minutes after murder victim Harold Monk was attacked has been nominated for a special award.
The armed officer, who cannot be named as he is a member of West Midlands firearms unit, found a battered and disorientated Mr Monk in his flat.
Minutes before, Paul Topham had straddled him and reigned punches to his face and body, breaking several ribs and causing brain damage.
94-year-old Mr Monk's neighbour had disturbed the burglar during the attack and retreated to phone the police.
Armed officers, who are specially trained in first aid, were dispatched to Inglewood Court, Wolverhampton.
Detective Inspector Phil Poole, who led the investigation, said: "I have nominated the armed officer for a special award. As well as delivering first aid to Mr Monk, the officer went to visit him in the hospital the next day in his own time.
"He took him chocolates and was able to have a chat with him, for his compassion and empathy I have nominated him for a special award."
The great-grandfather had an impact on the detectives who interviewed him in hospital hours before he passed away.
DI Poole said: "Harold was with it right to the end. He was an intelligent man and was determined to help the police officers as much as he could. He loved nothing more than filling out the Express & Star crossword every night and was loved by all those who knew him.
"His evidence played a key part in the murder investigation and made an impact on the jury during the murder trial."
Paul Topham was convicted of murder at Wolverhampton Crown Court and sentenced to life imprisonment today (Thrusday) by Justice Michael Chambers KC.
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