Halifax man commended by police after helping catch sex perpetrator
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Last year 22-year-old Brandon Hill, of Buxton Street, was working as a supervisor at Home Bargains on Crossley Retail Park when he noticed a suspicious shopper holding a large bag.
After reviewing CCTV, Mr Hill and his manager Gaynor Collins discovered the suspect was covertly filming women and young girls via a hidden camera.
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Hide AdHe said: “It was March last year when he I first noticed him in the store.
“A week later he came back with the large bag and I instantly recognised him, so we called the police.
“To stop him filming I stood in front of the camera.
“He eventually figured out what I was doing so he left the store, which is when I followed him for about 10 minutes.
“He asked why I was following him, but store policy is to remain calm and not physically touch these types of suspects.
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Hide Ad“He eventually got into his car and I took his registration plate and gave a police statement.”
Mr Hill said he was not abusive to the man because he did not want to jeopardise any police proceedings.
He said: “It’s disgusting and makes my skin crawl, but my natural instinct took over.
“The police can’t be everywhere and I had to do something.
“I felt honoured to be recognised.
“My advice to anyone is if you can help, read the situation and take your safety into consideration."
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Hide AdMr Hill was awarded by Chief Superintendent Dickie Whitehead at the Shay Stadium, on October 23.
A police spokesperson said: “The actions prevented sexual offences from being committed and secured evidence to prosecute the suspect.”