Convicted Sex Offender Among PC Harper's Killers Considered for Early Release

Albert Bowers, one of the individuals convicted for the manslaughter of PC Andrew Harper, is reportedly a convicted sex offender. Bowers, 24, was in line for early release alongside 29-year-old Jessie Cole after serving half of their 13-year sentences. They were involved in an incident where PC Harper was dragged by a vehicle during a quad bike theft in Sulhamstead, Berkshire. Following public outcry, Prime Minister Andy Burnham intervened to prevent their release. Reports indicate that Bowers had committed a sex crime prior to Harper's death in 2019 but was still considered fit for early release. Bowers is currently held at HMP Frankland and is listed as a 'sex offender', 'violent', and 'racist' in prison records. A source expressed concern about his potential danger to society. Additionally, Cole was deemed a 'risk to staff' by prison authorities. Henry Long, the driver of the vehicle, is serving a 16-year sentence and was never eligible for release. The early release scheme, introduced in September 2024, allows certain prisoners to be released after serving 40% of their sentence. Burnham announced that individuals convicted of unlawful killing, including manslaughter, would be excluded from this scheme. PC Harper's mother expressed gratitude for the decision but noted the family's ongoing trauma. Aileen O'Connor, chairwoman of Thames Valley Police Federation, emphasized that Harper's killers should not have been considered for early release and highlighted the public's overwhelming support against such plans. Following the changes, the number of expected early releases has decreased from 6,000 to 5,000. Burnham stated that additional prison space would be created by deporting foreign prisoners and releasing inmates serving indefinite sentences under Imprisonment for Public Protection.