Downing Street admits it can’t stop PC Andrew Harper’s killers from being released from prison early

Downing Street admits it can’t stop PC Andrew Harper’s killers from being released from prison early - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments Downing Street has said it is “not possible” to exempt “one or two offenders” convicted of manslaughter from early release amid pressure over the eligibility of Pc Andrew Harper’s killers to be freed from prison from January. The government’s early release scheme - put in place to manage overcrowding in the prison estate - was reviewed by new prime minister Andy Burnham after public outcry that Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, who were handed 13 years in custody in 2020 for PC Harper’s manslaughter, could be released early. While it was reported this week that Mr Burnham was prepared to “explore every option” to keep Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers in jail, No 10 has since played down the prospect of an imminent carve-out to keep the pair behind bars. This is a breaking news story. More to follow... Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments [Image text:] BREAKING NEWS