Chief Constable Simon Chesterman comments on the potential early release from prison of two men who were involved in the death of PC Andrew Harper
Chief Constable Simon Chesterman has added his own voice to the growing concern expressed by police leaders at the potential early release from prison of two men who were involved in the death of PC Andrew Harper:
“As a serving Chief Constable who spent the majority of my police service in Thames Valley Police, I feel compelled to demonstrate solidarity with PC Andrew Harper’s family, and his friends and colleagues, and to express my horror with a situation where those who played a key role in his death on-duty could benefit from an early release from prison.
“Police officers serve to protect the public, they demonstrate incredible levels of bravery and commitment on a daily basis, often attending incidents involving the most dangerous individuals in society. To attack the police, without just consequence, is an attack on us all.
“To protect public confidence, police morale and to respect the pain that PC Harper’s family and policing colleagues will always carry, those involved in his killing should remain in prison for the remainder of their sentence.”
PC Andrew Harper, 28, of Thames Valley Police, was killed in August 2019 while responding to the theft of a quad bike in Berkshire. He was dragged behind a vehicle on a country road while carrying out his duties for Thames Valley Police.
Three teenagers involved in the incident were later sentenced to a combined total of 42 years in prison. Two of those convicted - Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers - received 13-year sentences and could potentially become eligible for release after serving half of their custodial terms under current proposals.
Chief Constable Simon Chesterman served with Thames Valley Police from 1984 to 2007.