PC Harper's Mother Condemns 6-Year Early Release for 2 Killers as UK Reviews Sentencing Act
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 23
PC Harper's Mother Condemns 6-Year Early Release for 2 Killers as UK Reviews Sentencing Act
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 23
Summary
Debbie Adlam said the planned early release of Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers was "another letdown for Andrew," arguing her son had not received proper justice and other victims would feel the same.
Cole and Bowers, both sentenced to 13 years for manslaughter over PC Andrew Harper's 2019 death, could be freed after 6 years under the Sentencing Act due in September; driver Henry Long is not eligible.
The row has intensified as Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he would review the policy, while two prison staff told the BBC governors were ordered to stop implementation work two weeks ago even as the government denies any delay decision.
The act is meant to ease prison overcrowding after emergency releases began in 2024, but unlike that scheme it has no exemptions for serious crimes, domestic abuse or terrorism.
Domestic Abuse Commissioner Nicole Jacobs said promised victim safeguards — including a helpline and risk-management support — still are not in place ahead of the September rollout.