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December 18, 2010

UK paramedics faced with gun threat

The terrified paramedics fled the scene, fearing they would be shot

By Geoff Bennett
Bristol Evening Post

BRISTOL, England — A mentally-ill Clifton woman who threatened two paramedics with a de-activated gun has been placed in the care of the mental health service.

Unwell Andrea Hopkins produced the silver revolver and told Louise Brimble and Julie Ruff they were going to take her friend to hospital or she would "fire it", Bristol Crown Court heard.

The terrified paramedics fled the scene, fearing they would be shot.

Hopkins, 52, of West Mall, pleaded guilty to possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear or violence in March.

Judge Michael Roach made it quite plain that such a serious offence would normally attract a prison term.

But he said: "I have had very detailed medical reports about you. They catalogue a long history of mental illness and serious attempts on your life made by you."

The judge said he had utmost sympathy for the victims, and said all paramedics need to be able to carry out their job without fear.

But he said that, in light of "unique and exceptional circumstances", a Guardianship Order in favour or Bristol City Council would provide Hopkins with the support and management she and society needed.

Richard Posner, prosecuting, said Hopkins was visiting a 51-year-old male friend at his Bath home when he became unwell and the paramedics were called to him.

Mr Posner said Hopkins heard "A&E" spoken and, due to a bad experience, insisted the paramedics take her friend to the main hospital.

He described how she produced a revolver - with the handle pointing towards them - and said they were going to take her friend to hospital or she would fire it.

Mr Posner told the court: "They could see bullets in the chamber. It must have been a terrifying experience. Both ladies were careful not to make a sudden move. They both fled and raised the alarm at the ambulance."

The court heard had suffered considerable anxiety since.

Fiona Elder, defending, said: "I accept there is a legitimate desire by the sentencing court to satisfy a need for punishment. There is also an over-riding feature to ensure no such behaviour happens again."

Miss Elder said that, before the incident, her client had been released for two months from being detained under the Mental Health Act.

Social worker Robert Moore said he believed jailing Hopkins would risk her attempting to take her life, and would affect her relationship with authority.

A Great Western Ambulance Service spokesman said: "Both members of our staff attended the hearing and were satisfied with the judgment and sentence."