Police union vows to fight early release of slain officer’s killers
- The Police Federation is threatening legal action against the government’s early prison release scheme, specifically concerning the men convicted of Pc Andrew Harper’s manslaughter.
- Aileen O’Connor, chair of the Police Federation, said they would “throw everything at this” through a legal challenge, calling the government’s decision a “final betrayal” to police officers.
- Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, who were convicted of Pc Harper’s manslaughter in 2020 and sentenced to 13 years, are eligible for early release halfway through their terms.
- Thames Valley Chief Constable Jason Hogg is seeking legal advice and said he would “certainly consider” joining the Police Federation’s legal action.
- Justice Secretary Alex Norris said that families affected by the scheme are “carrying the can” for previous government failures.
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