James Osborn was presented with an Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) Certificate of Commendation by Deputy Commissioner Craig Mackey at a ceremony held at New Scotland Yard on September 10.
On May 7, a young woman was attacked and subjected to a savage rape and robbery at knifepoint whilst walking through the grounds of All Saints Church in Orpington.
James witnessed the woman being dragged away and sensing that there was something very wrong immediately called the police.
Met Police officers responded to the call and initiated a search of the graveyard where the attacker was chased and caught by police.
The victim of the attack had been seriously sexually assaulted and robbed of her valuables.
The suspect was taken to Bromley police station and charged with rape, robbery and assault on police.
He was also charged with the rape of another victim which occurred 18 months before which had been unresolved.
On December 13, 2013 the suspect was found guilty on all counts and was sentenced to life imprisonment.
Superintendent Parm Sandhu, who read the citation at the ceremony said: “Despite witnessing this disturbing incident James kept calm and his quick thinking provided police with the location and description of the suspect. This undoubtedly played a significant part in his arrest and detention.
James later proved to be a convincing witness and was praised by the investigating team and the victim herself."
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