Communities come together to remember PC Andrew Harper
PC Harper was killed on 15th August 2019 while responding to a burglary in Berkshire
Last updated 11 hours ago
Communities across the Thames Valley and beyond are showing support in memory of PC Andrew Harper on the seventh anniversary of his death.
PC Harper was killed on 15th August 2019 while responding to a burglary in Berkshire, an event that the force says, continues to resonate deeply with colleagues, friends, family, and the communities he served.
A national petition protesting the proposed early release of two individuals convicted for his death reached over one million signatures, organised by the Chair of the Thames Valley Police Federation.
The number of letters, messages, attendance at events, and engagement in discussions has extended well beyond the local area, as police leaders, victims' representatives, elected officials, and the public nationwide urge the Government to reconsider the decision.
The Chief Constable for Thames Valley Police, Jason Hogg, said: "As we mark another anniversary of Andrew's death, our thoughts remain with Andrew's family and all those who continue to live with that loss every day.
"Andrew's death has had a profound impact on Thames Valley Police, and is also felt among our communities across the Thames Valley who followed the case from the very beginning and who have never forgotten his service and sacrifice.
"Over recent weeks we have seen an extraordinary level of support from members of the public, colleagues across policing and people from all walks of life."
Earlier in August, a joint open letter to the Prime Minister was signed by senior police and law enforcement leaders across the UK, including Thames Valley Police, expressing concern over the potential early release of those responsible for PC Harper’s death.
The letter advocated for thorough exploration of all lawful avenues in reviewing the case, and stressed the importance of considering victims' families' voices in such impactful decisions.
"This has always been about more than a single case," CC Hogg said. "It has become a discussion about justice, public confidence and how as a society we recognise the service and sacrifice of emergency workers who put themselves in harm's way to protect others, as well as the impact the early release of offenders inevitably has on victims.
"The response from the public has demonstrated just how strongly people feel about this issue. The support shown to Andrew's family, his colleagues and the wider policing family reflect the deep respect communities have for those who serve the public. It also reflects a wider expectation that decisions relating to serious offenders are subject to rigorous scrutiny and that the voices of bereaved families are heard throughout the process."
As discussions continue, Thames Valley Police staff and officers say they remain dedicated to protecting their communities.