The wife of a police officer who tragically lost his life while on duty shared the moment she experienced a life-altering event as she revealed a new memorial. PC Andrew Harper, aged 28, passed away on August 15, 2019, after an incident involving criminals escaping while he was responding to a quad bike theft in Sulhamstead, Berkshire.
Scheduled to end his shift and start his honeymoon with his wife Lissie that day, Harper’s life was cut short in a tragic turn of events. Three teenagers were convicted of his manslaughter in July 2020, prompting stricter sentencing for crimes against emergency personnel.
During the unveiling of a stone memorial in Reading by the Police Memorial Trust, Mrs. Harper delivered a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, expressing how her world changed forever in 2019. She emphasized the personal loss of losing a partner, strength, and first love, beyond his role as a dedicated police officer.
PC Harper met his untimely demise after getting entangled in a car strap and being dragged along a rural road by the fleeing suspects. Following the incident, Mrs. Harper advocated for Harper’s Law, which mandates enhanced penalties for those responsible for the manslaughter of emergency workers on duty.
Recognized for her efforts in aiding victims of violent crimes and their families, Mrs. Harper was honored with an MBE in 2022. At the commemoration event, Thames Valley Police Chief Constable Jason Hogg reflected on the impact of PC Harper’s death on the community and law enforcement, highlighting the inherent risks faced by officers in the line of duty.
The sentencing saw Henry Long, Jessie Cole, and Albert Bowers receiving prison terms for their involvement in PC Harper’s death. While all three were cleared of murder charges, the case led to the introduction of Harper’s Law under the Police, Crime, Sentencing, and Courts Act, ensuring stricter punishment for similar crimes in the future.