PC Harper Investigating Officer Condemns 13-Year Killers' Early Release Eligibility
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 7
PC Harper Investigating Officer Condemns 13-Year Killers' Early Release Eligibility
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 7
Summary
Former Det Supt Stuart Blaik said he was "deeply concerned and appalled" that Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers can be considered for release next year after serving half of their 13-year manslaughter terms.
Government revisions announced Monday exclude rapists, groomers and serious child sex offenders from early release, but still cover some manslaughter cases because ministers say prisons could run out of space by October.
Blaik, speaking publicly on the issue for the first time, said neither man showed remorse in custody or at trial and should not be given the chance of early release.
Lissie Harper, the widow of PC Andrew Harper, has urged support for a petition to block the move, while Thames Valley Police's chief has also been weighing legal action against the scheme.