Petition to block early release of PC Harper’s killers hits 1 million signatures

A petition organized by the Thames Valley Police Federation to prevent the early release of the men convicted in the death of PC Andrew Harper has surpassed one million signatures. The campaign seeks to block Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole from being released after serving only half of their 13-year manslaughter sentences.

PC Harper died in 2019 after being dragged for over a mile behind a vehicle during a quad bike theft in Berkshire. The potential release of the convicts has sparked significant public backlash and pressure on the government. An Ipsos poll indicates that 69 per cent of the public objects to using early release as a method to manage prison overcrowding.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has stated he is “increasingly confident” that the killers will not be released early and has directed the Justice Secretary to develop plans for managing prison space for serious offenders.