National Rural Crime Network statement on the early release of PC Andrew Harper’s killers
The National Rural Crime Network believes the killers of PC Andrew Harper should not be released from prison early.
PC Harper lost his life while serving a rural community and responding to crime. His death shocked the country and left an enduring impact on his family, his colleagues, policing, and the rural communities officers like him work every day to protect.
Allowing those responsible for his death to benefit from early release would send entirely the wrong message. It risks telling the public, victims, and frontline workers that even the most serious acts of violence against those who serve and protect our communities can be met with reduced consequences.
That cannot be right. Police officers, firefighters, NHS staff, social care workers and all those who serve rural communities often do so in isolated, challenging and high-risk situations. They deserve to know that the justice system stands firmly behind them when they are targeted, attacked or killed in the course of their duty.
Rural communities depend on these dedicated public servants. We ask them to respond when people are at their most vulnerable, to travel long distances, to work alone or in small teams, and to place themselves in harm’s way on behalf of others. The law must reflect the seriousness of any violence committed against them.
The National Rural Crime Network therefore calls on the Government to ensure that those convicted in connection with the killing of PC Andrew Harper are not released early, and to make clear that violent offences against emergency workers, NHS staff and social care staff will be treated with the gravity they deserve.
This is not only about one case. It is about the value we place on public service, the safety of those who protect rural communities, and the confidence victims and frontline workers must have in the justice system.
We stand with PC Harper’s family, with his colleagues, and with every public servant who puts themselves at risk to keep our rural communities safe.