Harper killers still eligible for early release despite Government U-turn

The decision prompted a furious response from Thames Valley Police Chief Constable Jason Hogg, who said he was “beyond disappointed” ministers had continued to allow Andrew Harper’s killers to benefit from the scheme despite widespread public opposition.

The Government has delayed the introduction of its early release plans by a month until October following an urgent review ordered by Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The review means offenders convicted of rape, serious child sexual offences and grooming offences will now be excluded from the changes.

However, the revised policy does not apply to Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, who were jailed for 13 years in 2020 for the manslaughter of PC Harper. They remain eligible for automatic release after serving half of their sentences rather than two-thirds.

Henry Long, who was also convicted over PC Harper’s death, is not eligible for early release under the changes.

Chief Constable Hogg said: “I am beyond disappointed the Government is continuing to allow PC Andrew Harper’s killers to be released early from prison despite the overwhelming recent public outcry.

“It is simple: if Andrew’s killers were convicted today, they would receive life sentences due to the law that was created in his name. They would not be eligible for early release.

“This decision is demoralising for all police officers and our fellow emergency service workers, not just in the Thames Valley, that puts themselves in harm’s way to protect and serve their community.

“We stand with Andrew’s family, the Police Federation, our Police and Crime Commissioner in our dismay and we will continue to lobby the Government to make the right decision.”

The widow of PC Harper, Lissie, said: “This is disgusting. I am beyond appalled and bristling with anger to hear that Andrew’s killers are soon to be free to roam the streets. What abhorrent message does this send? How dare Ministers say the killing of a police officer is not enough of a “sickening crime” that deserves the stiffest of punishments.

“The level of disrespect the Government are showing to Andrew and other victims – and to their loved ones such as me – is beyond contempt. The killers of Andrew have shown no remorse… they robbed us of our future. They are vile criminals and they should remain in jail.

“To release them early from their already pitiful sentences is an affront to justice. The Government and the justice system have not just let me down… they have added insult to injury. They are meant to be on our side. This is an utter betrayal – and it’s one I will not be able to forgive or forget.”

The proposed changes have also been criticised by Debbie Adlam, PC Harper’s mother, who previously described the inclusion of two of her son’s killers in the scheme as “another letdown” for the family.

Announcing the changes, Mr Burnham said the Government had listened to concerns raised by victims and campaigners and confirmed that rapists, serious child sexual offenders and grooming offenders would no longer benefit from the revised release arrangements.

Mr Burnham said: “I asked for an urgent review of the prisoner release scheme. I fully understand the anger, anxiety and distress that’s been caused. I’ve heard that loud and clear. That’s why we’re making significant changes: offenders who have been sentenced for rape, serious child sex offences and other grooming offences will be excluded from the changes.”

The changes form part of the Government’s plans to address severe prison overcrowding. Prisoners serving determinate sentences of four years or more will generally become eligible for release after serving half of their custodial term rather than two-thirds, subject to good behaviour, although serious sexual offenders will now be excluded.