A petition opposing the early release of Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, convicted of manslaughter in the death of PC Andrew Harper, has garnered over one million signatures. The petition was initiated by the Thames Valley Police Federation chair, highlighting the emotional toll on Harper's family and the policing community as the anniversary of his death approaches.
Under recent changes to the Sentencing Act, Cole and Bowers could be eligible for release in January after serving half of their sentences. This has prompted calls from police chiefs and local politicians for a review of the early release policy, particularly for those convicted of killing emergency workers during criminal acts.