The family of PC Andrew Harper is devastated as two of his killers remain eligible for early release under the government's revised prison release scheme.
The family of PC Andrew Harper the 28-year-old officer tragically killed in 2019, has expressed profound disappointment following the government’s revised plans to address prison overcrowding. The new scheme, announced on Monday, excludes prisoners convicted of rape, grooming, and serious child sex offences from early release.
However, two of the individuals responsible for PC Harper’s death remain eligible for this provision.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham acknowledged his desire to implement stricter measures but cautioned that doing so could lead to the collapse of the prison system, thereby endangering public safety.
This delicate balance has left the Harper family feeling let down and compelled to continue their fight for justice.
Family’s Heartfelt Response to the Government’s Decision
Speaking to BBC Newsnight PC Harper’s mother, Debbie Adlam shared her feelings of devastation.
“It feels like we’re letting Andrew down again,” she said, reflecting on the family’s journey through the justice system. “We thought we’d done as best as we could. Now we’re standing up to fight again… so I just feel really let down, for Andrew’s sake as well as ours.”
The family had previously received confirmation from the Ministry of Justice that two of the offenders involved in PC Harper’s death could be included in the early release scheme. Henry Long the driver of the vehicle, received a 16-year sentence and is not eligible. However, Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers who were passengers in the car and sentenced to 13 years for manslaughter, would become eligible for release after serving half of their sentences.
Adlam emphasized her determination to continue advocating for justice, stating, “I could not sit back and do nothing.” She also mentioned that Justice Secretary Alex Norris had called her to explain the situation and apologize. In a separate statement, PC Harper’s widow, Lissie Harper described the decision as “disgusting” and expressed her anger at the prospect of her husband’s killers being released early.
The Government’s Revised Prison Release Scheme
The Sentencing Act was amended in January, shifting the eligibility for early release from the type of offence to the length of the fixed sentence. Initially, the scheme excluded the most serious and dangerous offenders, such as those serving life sentences or extended sentences. However, following backlash from survivors, Burnham paused the plans and announced the revised scheme, set to restart in October.
Under the updated plans, rape and child sexual offences will now also be excluded from early release. Additionally, the government has allocated an extra £10 million to front-line victim support services, including a new national helpline. The changes will be phased in, beginning with prisoners serving sentences of less than 575 days, and extending to those jailed for 12 years or more by June 2027.
Burnham emphasized that offenders released early will be tagged and face longer periods of supervision, including “restriction zones.” The number of individuals released each time will depend on the prison population’s composition. Despite these measures, critics argue that the scheme does not go far enough to protect victims and ensure justice.
Reactions from the Public and Officials
Thames Valley Police Chief Constable Jason Hogg described the decision not to exclude PC Harper’s killers as “demoralising for all police officers.” The Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Claire Waxman acknowledged that the exemptions do not go far enough but acknowledged the constraints imposed by the prison capacity crisis. She called for the new prime minister to show “proper leadership” across the criminal justice system.
Domestic Abuse Commissioner Dame Nicole Jacobs criticized the decision not to exclude domestic abuse perpetrators, emphasizing the importance of ensuring victims’ safety. Meanwhile, Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy labeled the announcement a “U-turn” and argued that it does not go far enough to address the concerns of victims and their families.
As the government navigates the complexities of the prison system and public safety, the Harper family’s struggle for justice highlights the emotional toll and challenges faced by victims and their loved ones in the wake of such tragic events.
