Andy Burnham has confirmed that the individual accountable for the tragic death of PC Andrew Harper will not be granted early release. The mother of the fallen police officer, Debbie Adlam, expressed her outrage at the possibility of the other two men involved in her son’s killing being considered for early release. Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, passengers in the vehicle that caused the officer’s death, were notified by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) that they might be released early.
Addressing the situation, Burnham disclosed that he has engaged with the newly appointed Justice Secretary, Alex Norris, to reassess the early release policy. He clarified that Henry Long, the driver of the car that led to PC Harper’s tragic demise as he responded to a burglary incident, is not eligible for early release.
PC Harper, a valiant police officer, lost his life after being entangled in a strap attached to the back of a vehicle. The fatal incident occurred when three teenage suspects fled a burglary scene in Sulhamstead, Berkshire, in August 2019.
Long received a 16-year sentence for his role in the crime. Debbie Adlam expressed her shock and dismay at the potential early release of Cole and Bowers, both convicted of manslaughter.
Burnham remarked, “I empathize with the family; it was a heinous crime committed. The primary perpetrator will not be considered for early release. However, there may be implications for other involved parties, which we are actively reviewing with the Justice Secretary.”
Cole and Bowers, who were minors at the time of the incident, were sentenced to 13 years in prison for manslaughter following a trial at the Old Bailey in 2020. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) confirmed that both individuals could be eligible for release halfway through their sentences.
Debbie Adlam expressed her distress upon receiving confirmation from the MoJ about the potential sentence reduction for Cole and Bowers, stating, “It’s disheartening. Andrew’s life cannot be restored. This feels like a disrespect and a painful reminder.”
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized the severity of the crime and reassured the public that the driver responsible for PC Harper’s death is excluded from any potential sentencing adjustments. She highlighted the parole board process and the exclusion of the most dangerous offenders from early release changes.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice reiterated the government’s commitment to public safety and emphasized efforts to increase prison capacity and detain the most dangerous criminals.
