Off-duty police officers rescue distressed children in Maidstone
Pair awarded for bravery at Kent Police ceremony
Two children were rescued by off-duty Kent Police staff members after being found crying and distressed outside a house in Maidstone.
The incident occurred in October 2025 when employees Tanya Alderman and Demi Parkhill-Flemming heard screams coming from a nearby property. Upon arriving, they discovered the children, aged three and seven, outside the house. The older child told them their father was hurting their mother inside.
Faced with the situation, the pair calmed the children and escorted them to a neighbour’s house for safety. Shortly after, the suspect emerged and tried to take the children, but was stopped by Tanya and Demi. He fled the scene before uniformed officers arrived.
Courage under pressure
Tanya, who works in the Force Control Room, called 999 and entered the property, where she found the children’s mother unconscious and bleeding heavily due to severe injuries. Tanya provided crucial first aid and placed the woman in a recovery position, while Demi cared for the children until paramedics and officers arrived.
The suspect was later arrested and charged in connection with the event, with criminal proceedings ongoing.
Awards for bravery
Tanya and Demi were honoured for their bravery at the Chief Constable’s Awards ceremony, held on Tuesday 20th January 2026 at Kent Police College. Chief Constable Tim Smith presented the pair with Chief Constable’s Commendations.
During the event, awards from long service honours to certificates of merit were also presented to Kent Police staff and officers. Among the attendees was Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott.
Chief Constable Tim Smith said: “Tanya and Demi’s response showed real courage and their actions ensured a vulnerable woman in need of urgent medical treatment was safeguarded and got the help she needed.
“I’m very proud to have presented awards to officers and staff who have gone above and beyond expectations to protect the public, alongside those who have shown a real commitment to providing a first-class service to victims and witnesses in Kent.”
The ceremony was a recognition of the professionalism and dedication displayed by Kent officers and staff, ensuring public safety and justice.