Police chief considers joining legal action over PC Harper killers' early release
Two of PC Andrew Harper's killers are set to be included in the government's early release scheme, which begins in October.
Thames Valley Police chief Jason Hogg is contemplating joining legal action to halt the early release of two individuals convicted of murdering PC Andrew Harper. Hogg discussed the matter with the Police Federation of England and Wales, expressing his support for legal action. PC Harper was killed in 2019 during a quad bike theft incident in Berkshire.
The two perpetrators, Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, received 13-year sentences for manslaughter and can seek early release after serving half of their sentences. The driver, Henry Long, received a 16-year sentence and is not eligible for early release. Hogg emphasized that only certain offenses, such as murder, rape, grooming, and serious child sex offences, are exempt from the early release scheme.
However, manslaughter is not among these exemptions, and he believes that those responsible for taking a citizen's life should not be released early. Aileen O' Connor, the Police Federation's branch chairman, stated that her organization is considering legal action if it is a viable option. The government has released a revised list of exclusions from the early release scheme, which no longer includes murderers.
The Ministry of Justice announced that any legal challenge would have to be heard in the High Court, where judges would assess whether the government's decision was lawful or irrational.
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