Four brave cops honoured after Torquay attack

FOUR Victoria Police officers involved in a violent incident in Torquay in 2022 have received a Chief Commissioner’s Commendation for their brave actions.

Leading Senior-Constable Gerard Allman, Leading Senior-Constable Joseph Anderson, Senior Constable Stephen Pearson and Leading Senior-Constable Tracey Van Looy received the commendation at a special ceremony at the Victoria Police Academy on Thursday last week.

The award recognised exceptional courage, personal determination and extraordinary bravery in what was a violent, life threatening and perilous attack.

At the time of the incident, officers were responding to a mental health callout when the offender brandished a 30cm knife, attacking LSC Allman.

The officer was left with multiple stab wounds to his hands, arm and thigh.

SC Pearson came to his aid, striking the offender to the head and back while trying to restrain the hand holding the knife.

Fellow officers LSC Anderson and LSC Van Looy rushed to assist from the front of the house.

The wounded officer was able to discharge his taser, before OC spray was used again to gain control of the situation, and the offender was arrested.

Superintendent Michael Reid said the four officersdisplayed extraordinary courage.

“Confronted with an offender intent of causing serious harm to police, they maintained their composure, protecting both themselves and each other.

“We are so incredibly proud of their actions on that terrible day, which continues to have a significant impact on everyone involved.”

LSC Allman later retired from the force, and his colleagues are on extended leave.

“It is a reminder of the service, the sacrifice and the extraordinary risks our police confront in their dedication to keep the community safe,” Supt Reid said.

“Our members do not do it for recognition, which makes them all the more deserving of honours like this.”

Following the incident, the 48-year-old offender was later charged with attempting to intentionally cause serious injury, assaulting an emergency worker, resisting an emergency worker and common law assault.

He was found not guilty by reason of mental impairment.