A former colleague of murdered PC Andrew Harper is speaking out in fury, accusing the government of disrespecting police everywhere as two of the officer’s killers face early release within months.
Retired dog handler Chris Bushnell, 59, was one of the first officers to respond the night 28-year-old newlywed Andrew was dragged to his death in August 2019. He told how he chased the burglary gang that stole a £10,000 quad bike, only to discover his friend’s body was attached to their car by a rope.
Now, Downing Street has confirmed it cannot block the release of convicted killers Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole, despite a massive public petition nearing 900,000 signatures demanding they stay behind bars.
“When I first heard they could be let out early, I was shaking,” Chris said. “It’s absolutely outrageous.” He added that the decision makes officers feel “worthless” and “belittles” their sacrifice.
Chris recalled having tea with Andrew earlier that fateful day, not knowing it would be their last conversation. He described the moment he realized what had happened, initially mistaking Andrew’s body for a deer carcass in the darkness.
The retired Thames Valley Police officer said he revisits the scene every year and “will never get over it.” He received counseling after the ordeal but remains devastated.
The Police Federation has slammed the government’s silence as “deafening,” while former Labour adviser Danny Shaw claims emergency legislation could block the releases.
With the killers expected to walk free soon, the question remains: what message does this send to the men and women who risk their lives every day?
