The Police Federation has threatened legal action to prevent the release of Pc Andrew Harper's killers from prison early. Aileen O'Connor, chair of Thames Valley Police's Police Federation, said the decision would anger and demoralise serving officers.
Killers Eligible for Early Release
Pc Harper, 28, was killed in August 2019 while responding to a quad bike theft in Sulhamstead, Berkshire. Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers were convicted of manslaughter and given 13-year sentences, making them eligible for release halfway through their terms.
The Government announced on Monday that some crimes, including rape and serious child sexual abuse, would be exempt from the early release scheme, but other offenders remain eligible. The policy was introduced due to severe strain on prison capacity.
Legal Challenge Announced
Writing in the Sun, Ms O'Connor said she would 'throw everything at this through a proper legal challenge from KCs, barristers, you name it.' She added: 'We will do what we have to do to protect Andrew Harper's legacy and other victims up and down the country who don't have a platform to put their points across.'
She described the decision as 'a final betrayal from the politicians' and 'a smack in the face to every one of us police officers across the United Kingdom.' A petition started by the Police Federation has already reached 100,000 signatures.
Family and Official Reactions
Pc Harper's wife Lissie has expressed fury at the prospect of early release, calling it 'an affront to justice' and 'an utter betrayal.' His mother, Debbie Adlam, said the family was 'bitterly disappointed,' adding: 'Andrew deserves better than this, and so do we.'
Justice Secretary Alex Norris said families affected are 'carrying the can' for failures of previous Conservative governments. He confirmed he had apologised to some families, including Pc Harper's relatives.
Scheme Details and Concerns
Around 5,000 people are expected to be released early under the scheme, down from 6,000 after exemptions were made. Mr Norris said he 'wanted to go further' but could not because the prison estate would fill up 'very quickly.'
The Times reported that historical child sex abusers may still be eligible for release, despite a pledge to exclude them. The victims' commissioner Claire Waxman is seeking clarification from the Ministry of Justice.
The Prison Governors' Association criticised the late change, saying it put 'huge pressure' on staff. The Government has pledged to deliver 14,000 new prison spaces by 2031.
