The memorials of two fallen West Yorkshire police officers, PC Ian Broadhurst and Sergeant John Speed, were desecrated over the weekend, sparking widespread condemnation and an ongoing police investigation. The incidents, deemed “disgusting” by authorities, involved the defacement of both memorial stones with black paint. The first incident, discovered on Saturday evening, targeted the memorial of PC Broadhurst, who was tragically shot and killed on Boxing Day 2003 during a routine check of a stolen vehicle in Leeds. The assailant, David Bieber, a former US Marine on the run, also wounded two of PC Broadhurst’s colleagues. The memorial, adorned with wreaths and flowers in tribute to the 34-year-old traffic officer, was found with the tributes scattered and the stone defaced.
The second act of vandalism was discovered the following morning at the memorial dedicated to Sergeant John Speed, who was gunned down in the line of duty on October 31, 1984, at the age of 39. Sergeant Speed was killed by armed robber David Gricewith during a routine check of two suspicious individuals in Leeds city centre. His memorial stone was similarly covered in black paint, an act believed to have occurred around 1am on Sunday. The proximity in time and the similar nature of the vandalism have led police to suspect a possible link between the two incidents.
The desecration of these memorials has deeply affected the West Yorkshire Police force and the wider community. Leeds District Commander Chief Superintendent Steve Dodds expressed his outrage, emphasizing the “ultimate sacrifice” made by both officers while protecting the public. He conveyed the collective dismay of the police force and the broader policing community, highlighting the officers’ dedication and bravery in the face of danger. The defacing of memorials honoring their service is a profound disrespect to their memory and the values they upheld.
Both PC Broadhurst and Sergeant Speed were victims of senseless violence while performing their duties. PC Broadhurst’s murder, at point-blank range, sent shockwaves through the community and the nation. The subsequent discovery that his killer was a fugitive wanted in the US added another layer of tragedy to the incident. Bieber was eventually convicted of murder and attempted murder and sentenced to life imprisonment. Sergeant Speed’s death, similarly, highlighted the risks faced by law enforcement officers daily. His bravery was posthumously recognized with the Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct, a testament to his selfless service.
The swift response from the West Yorkshire Police underscores their commitment to honoring the memory of their fallen colleagues. PC Broadhurst’s memorial has already been cleaned and restored, while efforts are underway to cleanse Sergeant Speed’s memorial and return it to its original state. While the physical damage is expected to be temporary, the emotional impact of these acts of vandalism resonates deeply within the force and the community. The police are actively investigating both incidents and appealing for public assistance in identifying those responsible.
The investigation into the vandalism is ongoing, with police urging anyone with information to come forward. They believe these acts are not only disrespectful to the memory of the slain officers but also a blatant disregard for the community they served. Chief Superintendent Dodds stressed the importance of bringing those responsible to justice, not only for the sake of the fallen officers but also to reaffirm the community’s respect for law enforcement and their dedication to upholding peace and safety. The investigation remains a priority for West Yorkshire Police, reflecting their commitment to preserving the legacy of PC Broadhurst and Sergeant Speed and ensuring that such acts of disrespect are not tolerated.
