97-year-old Enfield care home resident’s wish fulfilled as police make birthday ‘arrest’

A 97-year-old care home resident in Enfield had her lifelong dream fulfilled in the most unexpected way — with a police officer placing her under arrest on her birthday.

The incredible scene took place at Care UK’s Elizabeth Lodge, on Pennington Drive, when team members, family and friends gathered to celebrate the special milestone.

Maggie Clarke, who is well-known for her lively sense of humour and mischievous streak, had often joked about what it would be like to experience being arrested. At first, team members at Elizabeth Lodge dismissed the idea as just another one of Maggie’s playful comments. However, after putting together a criminally surprising plan with Maggie’s family, the care home team went undercover and reached out to the local police force.

They enlisted the help of Metropolitan Police, and on the morning of Maggie’s big day, a group of officers from Wood Green Police Station arrived at Elizabeth Lodge with a set of handcuffs and a spoof arrest warrant — all part of the elaborate surprise.

Former children’s nurse Maggie gleefully put her hands together and smiled for the cameras as PC Benjamin Flint ‘arrested’ her with all the theatrics of a seasoned law enforcement officer. She was charged on the grounds of consistent speeding in her wheelchair.

The 97-year-old said: “I have been too good for far too long, I think. It was definitely on my bucket list to be arrested by a handsome policeman.

“My list is complete, I loved it!”

 

The entire experience lasted about 15 minutes, with Maggie being handcuffed, led outside to a police car and ‘booked’ by the officers. Fellow residents and family members cheered, while others shook their heads in amusement at Maggie’s unyielding spirit.

Following her brief ‘arrest’, Maggie was treated to a birthday cake and a party, where she shared stories of her younger years and entertained guests with her lively anecdotes. 

Metropolitan Police expressed their delight in being part of such a unique and heartwarming experience.

Sergeant Eren Emin, from Oakwood Ward neighbourhood police team, said: “We attended the care home with a birthday card signed by the teams across Enfield and some token gifts for Maggie, as well as making sure she was duly arrested for consistently speeding in her wheelchair!

“We were honoured to celebrate Maggie’s birthday with her and hope we made her day.

“I’m proud of the efforts of my teams, who will always do their best to support our elderly residents wherever possible.”

The stunt formed part of Elizabeth Lodge’s Wishing Tree Initiative, which encourages residents to put wishes forward, allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new – from flying on a plane to enjoying a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small.

Michelle Sampang, Home Manager at Elizabeth Lodge, said: “Maggie has always had a lot of fun, but this was something else. She’s really full of surprises!

“When we learned of Maggie’s wish to be arrested, we were delighted to help make it happen. Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative is a wonderful way for residents to share their passions and it’s hugely rewarding to be able to make these wishes a reality – even if it means a run-in with the local police!

“It was really a great community effort, and it made Maggie’s day that much more memorable for her and her family. I’d like to thank Metropolitan Police for being wonderful sports and helping to fulfil Maggie’s hilarious fantasy!”

Elizabeth Lodge is an elegant, purpose-designed care home which provides personalised residential, nursing and respite care for older people, as well as dementia care and compassionate end-of-life care. To ensure that every day is different and enjoyable, each resident has a care plan that is tailored to their unique needs, interests and choices. The home has an extensive activity programme including a gardening club, arts and crafts, cooking and themed events.