Andy Burnham has affirmed that the individual responsible for the tragic death of PC Andrew Harper will not receive an early release. Debbie Adlam, the mother of the fallen police officer, expressed her dismay over the potential early release of the two other individuals convicted in connection to her son’s death. PC Harper, aged 28, sustained fatal injuries while responding to a quad bike theft in Sulhamstead, Berkshire, in August 2019.
The officer lost his life after being entangled in a strap attached to a car and dragged along a rural road while three teenage suspects fled the burglary scene. The driver, Henry Long, was sentenced to 16 years in prison and will not be eligible for early release. However, Adlam criticized the possibility of the passengers in the car, Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, both 17 at the time of the incident, being released early.
During a trial at the Old Bailey in 2020, Cole and Bowers were each sentenced to 13 years in custody for manslaughter. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has confirmed that these individuals could potentially be released halfway through their sentences. Burnham expressed his sympathy for the family, calling the crime appalling and assuring that the main perpetrator will not be subject to early release. He mentioned discussing the matter with the new Justice Secretary and pledged a review of policies with further statements to follow.
Adlam, in an interview with The Telegraph, revealed that she received a letter from the MoJ indicating the possible reduction of Cole and Bowers’ sentences. She expressed her disgust, stating that Andrew’s life cannot be brought back, and described the situation as a disrespectful gesture.
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson emphasized the severity of the crime and extended condolences to PC Andrew Harper’s family and friends. The spokesperson highlighted the government’s commitment to public safety, citing efforts to increase prison capacity and incarcerate the most dangerous offenders.
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