Federation renews call for police killers to be excluded from early release

4 August 2026

West Mercia Police Federation has renewed its calls for tougher restrictions on the early release of offenders who attack or kill police officers, warning that the Government's latest sentencing reforms fail to address growing concerns among rank-and-file officers.

Under the proposals, around 5,000 additional prisoners are expected to be released early in phases from October, alongside the thousands of offenders already released from custody each month.

The reforms have renewed attention on the case of Thames Valley Police officer PC Andrew Harper, who was killed in the line of duty in August 2019 after being dragged behind a vehicle while responding to the theft of a quad bike. Two of those convicted over his death could become eligible for release after serving half of their custodial sentences under the revised arrangements.

Gareth Spreadbury said the proposed changes, which will prevent offenders convicted of rape, grooming and the most serious child sexual offences from qualifying for earlier release, represent a missed opportunity to recognise the unique risks faced by police officers.

He said: "Whether it is a serious assault on an officer or the tragic loss of an officer's life, there must be confidence that the criminal justice system delivers consequences that match the harm caused.

"We are not asking for special treatment. We are asking for consistency, fairness and recognition of the dangers officers face in protecting the public.

Consequences

"When decisions are made that appear to reduce the consequences for those who commit the most serious offences against police officers, it inevitably affects confidence within policing and risks damaging public trust in the justice system.

"I would urge ministers to reconsider these proposals and ensure that anyone convicted of killing a police officer while they are carrying out their duty is excluded from early release."

His comments come just weeks after the Federation publicly criticised the early release of father-and-son offenders, Richard and Alex Quinn, whose violent attack on West Mercia PC Ryan Davis left the officer with life-changing physical and psychological injuries.

At the time, branch chair Gareth warned that the decision had left officers feeling betrayed and questioning whether the justice system properly reflected the seriousness of attacks on police.

Gareth added: "Only recently we spoke about the impact of Richard and Alex Quinn's early release and the message it sent to police officers who put themselves in danger every day. This latest announcement raises many of the same concerns.

Early release

"The Government has recognised that some offenders should not benefit from early release because of the seriousness of their crimes. But it is difficult to understand why those convicted of killing police officers have not been included within those protections.

"Every officer accepts there are risks attached to the job, but they also deserve confidence that when the very worst happens, the justice system will respond in a way that reflects the gravity of the offence.”

Gareth said officers across West Mercia would struggle to reconcile that prospect with the sacrifices made by police every day.

National Police Federation chair Tiff Lynch has also criticised the proposals, warning they risk undermining public confidence in the justice system, causing further distress to bereaved families and sending the wrong message about the value placed on those who serve and protect their communities.

A petition calling for those responsible for PC Andrew Harper's death to be excluded from early release has also been launched.

Sign the petition here.