Burnham to review early prisoner release scheme before September start
6 reported2 unconfirmed
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has stated he will review the early prisoner release policy before it takes effect in September under the new Sentencing Act. Hundreds of offenders are set to be released early, with no exemptions for those convicted of serious crimes, domestic abuse, or terrorism, unlike earlier emergency measures. Burnham said he cannot promise to change the policy completely but will examine it in detail with the justice secretary. The review follows concerns that the killers of PC Andrew Harper, who was dragged to death in 2019, might be eligible for early release. The Ministry of Justice confirmed that Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, who received 13-year sentences for manslaughter, could be released halfway through their terms. Burnham confirmed that the driver, Henry Long, who received a 16-year sentence, will not be eligible for the scheme. Harper’s mother, Debbie Adlam, told The Telegraph that the potential early release “feels like a slap in the face and an insult.”
What’s reported
Andy Burnham said he will review the early prisoner release policy before it goes ahead in September.
The new Sentencing Act includes no exemptions for prisoners convicted of serious crimes, domestic abuse, or terrorism.
About 6,000 people are set to be released under the early prison release scheme.
Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, convicted of manslaughter in the death of PC Andrew Harper, might be eligible for release halfway through their 13-year sentences.
Henry Long, the driver, received a 16-year sentence and will not be eligible for early release.
Burnham said two of his ministers, Wes Streeting and Shabana Mahmood, apologized after being caught on camera joking about the early release scheme.
Open questions
Whether the review will result in changes to the early release policy before September.
Whether Cole and Bowers will ultimately be released early under the scheme.
Key figures
Andy Burnham, Prime Minister
Wes Streeting, Defence Secretary
Shabana Mahmood, Minister
PC Andrew Harper, deceased police officer
Debbie Adlam, mother of PC Andrew Harper
Jessie Cole, convicted of manslaughter
Albert Bowers, convicted of manslaughter
Henry Long, driver convicted in the case
Sources: The Guardian
