PC Harper, 28, Died in 2019 While Responding to a Quad Bike Theft in Sulhamstead, Berkshire, After Being Dragged Along a Road

Lissie Harper, widow of PC Andrew Harper, said she is "beyond appalled" and "bristling with anger" after learning two of her husband's killers will be eligible for early release. PC Harper, 28, died in 2019 while responding to a quad bike theft in Sulhamstead, Berkshire, after being dragged along a road. Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole were jailed for 13 years in 2020 for manslaughter.

Mrs Harper slammed the decision as "disgusting" and an "utter betrayal" by the government. "This is disgusting. I am beyond appalled and bristling with anger to hear that Andrew's killers are soon to be free to roam the streets, she said.

"What abhorrent message does this send? How dare ministers say the killing of a police officer is not enough of a 'sickening crime' that deserves the stiffest of punishments. She added: "The killers of Andrew have shown no remorse... they robbed us of our future.

They are vile criminals and they should remain in jail. To release them early from their already pitiful sentences is an affront to justice. The early release scheme, paused in September, will now be delayed until October.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said rapists and serious child sex offenders will be blocked from early release, but the pair remain eligible. Shadow justice secretary Nick Timothy said the U-turn "doesn't go far enough, adding: Some child sex offenders and killers, like those responsible for the death of Pc Harper, will still be released early.