Thames Valley Police Chief Constable Jason Hogg stated that the family of PC Andrew Harper has been "re-traumatized" by the necessity of campaigning against the early release of his killers. The intervention by the government, which will now prevent Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers from early release, has been welcomed by Hogg.
Hogg described the changes to the prison early-release scheme, excluding those convicted of unlawful killing, as part of PC Harper's "enduring legacy." However, he acknowledged that many other victims' families may still be disappointed that the exemptions do not extend further. He expressed concern that government plans to release offenders early and reduce the prison population by discontinuing shorter sentences could lead to individuals who still pose a risk to the public being released.
"I think we have a criminal justice system in crisis," Hogg said, noting that this issue requires years to resolve. He highlighted that the reoffending rate for released adults in the UK is approximately 30 percent within the first year, and when early-released individuals breach their conditions, they should be quickly returned to custody. Hogg also reported that even before the full implementation of the Sentencing Act, it has become more difficult to remand individuals into custody.
PC Andrew Harper was killed in the line of duty on August 15, 2019. The efforts of PC Harper's wife, Lissie, and mother, Debbie Adlam, were praised by Hogg for their dignified and powerful advocacy. He believes their campaign has now ensured that the families of hundreds of victims who have lost their lives will see the culprits remain in prison for longer periods. Hogg expressed pride that PC Harper's legacy now extends to this wider group of victims' families.
Despite the relief for some families, Hogg anticipates that others will be disappointed. He warned that police forces may need to reallocate resources from other priorities to manage offenders released into the community. Hogg stated he conveyed his concerns about the criminal justice system's crisis to the Lord Chancellor during a recent meeting.