PC Andrew Harper's Killers Will Be Kept in Prison, Burnham Confirms
The Prime Minister has been forced to keep hundreds more people behind bars who would otherwise be eligible for release to ensure Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole are not let out.
TL;DR
- PC Andrew Harper's killers, Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole, will be excluded from the early prison release scheme.
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham confirmed that anyone convicted of unlawful killing will be ruled out of the scheme.
- This change ensures Bowers and Cole, who were serving sentences for manslaughter, will not be released halfway through their 13-year sentences.
- The decision was made following significant public and political pressure.
- The new policy also excludes those convicted of death by dangerous driving and historic child sex offenses.
- The early release scheme, aimed at easing prison overcrowding, allows eligible prisoners to be released after serving 40% of their sentence.
- PC Harper's mother, Debbie Adlam, expressed gratitude but noted the emotional toll on the family.
- The chairwoman of Thames Valley Police Federation, Aileen O'Connor, welcomed the decision, emphasizing public and policing opinion.
- The government is reviewing changes to the Sentencing Act, with details expected after the parliamentary recess.