politics
'Glimmer of optimism' that Pc Harper's killers will be blocked from release
There is a "glimmer of optimism" that Pc Andrew Harper's killers will be blocked from the early release scheme, a police chief has said. Thames Valley Police Federation Chair Aileen O’Connor spoke out as Andy Burnham is under intense pressure to exclude Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole from the controversial plans amid widespread outrage.
TL;DR
- Thames Valley Police Federation Chair Aileen O’Connor expressed a "glimmer of optimism" that Pc Andrew Harper's killers will be blocked from early release.
- Justice Secretary Alex Norris is reviewing the early release scheme amid public and police outrage.
- Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole, convicted of Pc Harper's murder, could be released halfway through their 13-year sentences under current plans.
- The Prime Minister ordered a review of the early release scheme, which aims to tackle prison overcrowding.
- Changes were made to exclude rapists and paedophiles, but Pc Harper's killers were not initially covered.
- There is a petition with over one million signatures to stop their release.
- The Sentencing Act 2026 allows for expanded early release policies.
- Harper's Law mandates life sentences for those convicted of killing emergency workers during a crime.