Andy Burnham is facing increasing pressure to prevent the early release of PC Andrew Harper’s killers as a petition signed by around 650,000 individuals urges him to take action. The Prime Minister has adjusted regulations to exclude rape, serious child sexual offenses, and grooming from the early prison release plan.

However, manslaughter charges are not part of the exemptions, which means that Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, the individuals responsible for PC Harper’s death, could be eligible for early release under upcoming sentencing changes. The Labour party stated that they are compelled to release some prisoners early due to severe overcrowding issues inherited from the previous government.

Former Det Sup Stuart Blaik, who headed the Thames Valley Police investigation into the case, expressed dismay at the early release of the killers, highlighting their lack of remorse. Justice Secretary Alex Norris apologized to PC Harper’s family but defended the measures as necessary to prevent prison overcrowding.

A change.org petition demanding the blocking of PC Harper’s killers’ early release has garnered over 650,000 signatures and continues to gain more support. The petition, initiated by Aileen O’Connor, chair of the Thames Valley Police Federation, condemns the decision as hurtful to PC Harper’s family and the policing community.

PC Harper’s mother, Debbie Adlam, and widow, Lissie Harper, expressed disappointment and outrage at the government’s decision, calling it a betrayal. Home office minister Anna Turley acknowledged the severity of the case but emphasized the need to manage the prison system effectively due to capacity constraints.

PC Harper tragically lost his life while responding to a theft incident, leading to the conviction of his killers. Prime Minister Boris Johnson expressed a desire to expand exemptions but cited limitations due to prison capacity issues. Justice Secretary Mr. Norris expressed regret over the situation and acknowledged the impact of the changes on individuals’ lives.

Andy Burnham is reportedly looking into potential loopholes that could allow grooming gang perpetrators to be released early, aiming to address any shortcomings in the current regulations. Thames Valley Police Chief Constable Jason Hogg is exploring legal options to challenge the early release of Cole and Bowers.