Thames Valley Police’s chief constable stated he will consider joining legal action if the government releases two of PC Andrew Harper’s killers before they complete their full sentences.
Jason Hogg, who was on duty the night Harper died, told a radio program he would back the Police Federation’s potential judicial review if ministers do not reverse the early-release policy.
Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers received 13-year sentences in 2020 for the manslaughter of the 28-year-old officer. In August 2019, Harper was dragged to his death by a car after the pair and their accomplice, Henry Long, fled a quad bike theft in Berkshire. Long, who was driving, was sentenced to 16 years and is not eligible for early release.
The government plans to free about 5,000 prisoners who have served only a third of their sentences starting in October to reduce overcrowding in England and Wales. Cole and Bowers could be among those released.
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Chief constable seeks government response
Hogg wrote to the prime minister, Andy Burnham, 12 days ago to warn that releasing the pair would harm officer morale. He has not received a reply.
He intends to write again to the prime minister, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, and Justice Secretary Alex Norris to explain the impact on the force’s 2,000 employees. “It isn’t my role to set government policy or the law,” he said. “But most people would likely agree that those who take a life should remain in prison as long as possible.”
The government excluded those convicted of rape, serious child sexual offences, and grooming from the early-release plan after public criticism. Hogg noted Harper’s role as an emergency worker made the case more severe.
Harper’s widow, Lissie Harper, campaigned for legal changes following his death. The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 introduced mandatory life sentences for manslaughter of emergency workers, though the law does not apply to past cases.
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Hogg did not state whether all manslaughter convicts should be exempt. He emphasized the risks of releasing prisoners who may not be rehabilitated. The National Police Chiefs’ Council estimates managing the freed offenders in the community will cost £480 million.
“One challenge with the sentencing act is that it releases people based on the crime, not whether they’ve changed,” he said. “If someone still poses a risk, feels no remorse, and returns to the streets early, that risk must be handled by probation and police.”
The Police Federation, representing rank-and-file officers, is exploring legal options to block the releases. Hogg said he is monitoring developments and will consult with the federation before deciding on joining any court action.
“I hope we won’t need to take that step,” he added. “The government should listen.”
