Family Says Proposed Policy Undermines Justice for Victims
Lissie Harper, the widow of PC Andrew Harper, has criticised plans that could allow some prisoners to be released early, describing the proposal as “deplorable” after reports that two of her husband’s killers may benefit from the policy.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has since announced he will review the Sentencing Act before it takes effect in September.
Concerns Over Early Release Policy
The Sentencing Act was introduced to ease pressure on overcrowded prisons in England and Wales by allowing some offenders to leave prison earlier than under previous rules.
Burnham acknowledged that prisons remain under significant strain because of years of underinvestment but said he would carefully examine the policy before it moves forward.
“I can’t say that I can change the policy completely, but I will look at it in detail before we go further forward,” he said.
Widow Says Victims Deserve Better
Lissie Harper said the proposal had reopened painful memories of her husband’s death and questioned whether victims were being properly considered.
She said it had taken years to rebuild her life after losing Andrew and described the possibility of early release as unacceptable.
Harper argued that decisions affecting victims’ families should not be made without considering their lasting impact.
She also said the justice system should prioritise accountability and public confidence.
Killers Could Be Released Earlier
Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers were each sentenced to 13 years in prison for the manslaughter of PC Andrew Harper and could qualify for early release under the new legislation.
The third offender, Henry Long, who received a 16-year sentence for manslaughter, would not be eligible for early release under the policy.
PC Harper was killed in 2019 after being dragged behind a getaway vehicle while responding to the theft of a quad bike.
Calls to Protect Victims
Following her husband’s death, Lissie Harper successfully campaigned for Harper’s Law, which introduced tougher sentencing measures for those convicted of killing emergency workers while on duty.
She said the law received support from both the Conservative and Labour parties at the time but believes its principles are now being overlooked.
Victim Support welcomed Burnham’s decision to review the policy, saying victims should be informed if offenders become eligible for early release.
Prison Capacity Remains a Challenge
The government introduced the Sentencing Act to help reduce pressure on England and Wales’ prison system, where overcrowding has become a long-term problem.
Officials say more than 5,000 inmates could be released earlier than expected under the legislation to create additional prison spaces.
However, prison staff have warned that cancelling the plans without alternative measures could place the prison system under renewed pressure.
The review is expected to determine whether changes will be made before the policy is implemented.
