PC Harper killers may be eligible for early release

The mother of police officer Andrew Harper has said it feels like an “insult” that two of her son’s killers may be eligible for early release from prison.

PC Harper was 28 when he sustained fatal injuries while responding to a quad bike theft in Sulhamstead, Berkshire, in August 2019.

Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, who were passengers in the car and both 17 at the time, were handed 13 years in custody for manslaughter after a trial at the Old Bailey in 2020.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he would review the policy with new Justice Secretary Alex Norris and make further statements in due course.

PC Harper died after getting caught in a strap attached to the back of a car and dragged down a country road as three teenage suspects fled the scene of the burglary.

Both Cole and Bowers might be eligible to be released from prison halfway through their sentences, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has confirmed.

Under the new Sentencing Act, due to come into force in September, some 6,000 criminals are set to be released under the early prison release scheme.

The government has so far failed to rule out whether killers, rapists and paedophiles will be exempt from the scheme.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the driver of the vehicle, Henry Long, who received a 16-year sentence, would not be eligible for the scheme.

He said: “On the broader issue, I feel for the family, it’s an appalling crime that was committed.

“The main perpetrator will not be subject to any early release. Of course, others involved have potentially been identified.

“But I’ve spoken to the new justice secretary. He will review the policy together and make further statements in due course.”

Source: (BBC News)