The chief constable of Thames Valley Police has said it “feels wrong” that the men convicted over the death of PC Andrew Harper could be eligible for early release.
Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole were convicted of manslaughter in 2020 following the death of PC Harper, who was killed while responding to reports of a stolen quad bike in Berkshire on 15 August 2019.
Chief Constable Jason Hogg has expressed concern following reports that the pair may be eligible for early release under changes introduced through the Sentencing Act.
PC Harper’s death led to the introduction of Harper’s Law, which created mandatory life sentences for offenders convicted of the manslaughter of an emergency worker in the course of another crime.
Mr Hogg said that if PC Harper’s killers were convicted today, they would receive life sentences under the law named after the officer.
He said: “The tragedy of Andrew Harper’s death has had a lasting impact, both within Thames Valley Police and across policing and our communities nationally.
“It is a real and constant reminder of the dedication of officers and staff who respond without hesitation to protect their communities.
“Under the law that bears Andrew’s name, if his killers were convicted today, they would be receiving life sentences.
“For this reason, for them to be released early under the new Sentencing Act legislation feels wrong.”
Mr Hogg said he had written to the Prime Minister to raise his concerns.
