Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to review a controversial early prison release scheme following sharp criticism from Lissie Harper, the widow of hero PC Andrew Harper.
Mrs. Harper publicly denounced the policy, calling it "deplorable" and accusing politicians of making decisions with "real and lasting consequences for victims' families." Her intervention came as it emerged that two of the teenagers convicted of her husband's murder are slated for early release in September.
PC Andrew Harper was killed in 2019 while attempting to stop a quad bike theft. He was dragged behind a car for over a mile by three teenage assailants. His widow, Lissie Harper, was instrumental in advocating for "Harper's Law," which mandates life sentences for those who kill emergency workers in the line of duty.
"We speak of justice, accountability and standing with victims, yet decisions like this do the opposite," Mrs. Harper stated. "They tell victims their suffering matters less, and offenders that the punishment handed down by our courts is no longer what they will actually serve."
Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, who were passengers in the getaway car and 17 at the time of the offense, were convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 13 years in custody. They are eligible for release after serving two-thirds of their sentence, a timeline that could see them freed within the year under the current interpretation of the Sentencing Act. The driver, Henry Long, received a life sentence with a minimum term of 16 years and is not eligible for early release under the same provisions.
Conservative politicians, including former Home Secretary Priti Patel and former Justice Secretary Robert Buckland KC, have also voiced strong opposition to the early release of Cole and Bowers, describing it as "outrageous" and "an insult" to PC Harper's memory.
Sources indicated that prison governors may have been instructed to pause the scheme, with officials reportedly summoned to a meeting to discuss its future. The Ministry of Justice has not confirmed these reports. The Sentencing Act, a flagship Labour policy intended to alleviate prison overcrowding, allows for the early release of some violent and sexual offenders after serving half their sentence, or even a third if good behavior is demonstrated. Murderers are excluded from this provision.
Aileen O'Connor, chairwoman of Thames Valley Police Federation, expressed disgust at the prospect of the offenders being released, questioning the message it sends about the value of a police officer's life. Thames Valley Police Chief Constable Jason Hogg has also written to the Prime Minister to convey his opposition.
Claire Waxman, the Victims' Commissioner for England and Wales, stated that she lacks confidence that the planned releases can adequately safeguard victims, protect the public, and maintain confidence in the justice system.
Prime Minister Burnham acknowledged the concerns, stating he has spoken with the Justice Secretary and that a review of the policy will be conducted, with further statements to follow.