Thames Valley Police has welcomed confirmation from the prime minister regarding the sentencing of those responsible for PC Andrew Harper’s death.
The chief constable expressed gratitude that the force’s representations had been heard as changes to the Sentencing Act were outlined.
Andy Burnham announced that the government would not only continue holding offenders convicted of indecent assault but would also retain those imprisoned for manslaughter and dangerous driving leading to death.
This development ensures that those found guilty of killing PC Andrew Harper will not benefit from early release provisions.
Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole, who played roles in the police officer’s death, had been scheduled for liberation later this year after completing half of their custodial terms.
The original release plans emerged following implementation of the Sentencing Act, which aimed to address prison population pressures.
Public response proved substantial, with thousands offering messages of solidarity and participating in demonstrations against the proposed liberation.
A petition attracting in excess of one million signatures urged that those responsible serve the entirety of their sentences.
Chief Constable Jason Hogg recently convened with Lord Chancellor Alex Norris, accompanied by Thames Valley Police Federation chair Aileen O’Connor and police and crime commissioner Matthew Barber, to address the matter directly.
The chief constable stated that confirmation regarding continued detention of the offenders would be met with relief throughout the policing sector and affected communities.
In preceding weeks, persistent representations had highlighted concerns about ramifications for PC Harper’s loved ones, serving officers and the general public.
Those concerns were acknowledged and incorporated into deliberations, with Mr Hogg indicating appreciation for the consideration given to the force’s position.
Throughout discussions, priority remained on ensuring that those bereaved and serving officers could articulate their experiences and have these properly weighed alongside systemic challenges within the justice framework.
Mr Hogg observed that the controversy extended considerably beyond Thames Valley, expressing hope that the announcement would offer comfort to other bereaved families.
According to the chief constable, the occasion transcended political considerations, instead serving as an opportunity to honour PC Harper’s memory and acknowledge the enduring effects of his killing upon his loved ones, the communities he protected and serving officers.
PC Harper, a native of Wallingford, died in 2019 while attending a reported quad bike theft in Sulhamstead, Berkshire.
The 28-year-old sustained severe injuries when dragged along a rural route behind a vehicle containing three adolescents as they attempted escape.
Henry Long, Mr Cole and Mr Bowers received custodial sentences for the manslaughter of the police officer.