1m Sign Petition Against Early Release of PC Harper’s Killers

Petition over proposed early release in PC Andrew Harper case passes one million signatures

A national petition concerning the proposed early release of two people convicted in connection with the death of PC Andrew Harper has passed one million signatures, according to Thames Valley Police. The force shared the update as it marked the seventh anniversary of Harper’s death on 15 August.

PC Harper died on 15 August 2019 while responding to reports of a burglary in Berkshire. Thames Valley Police said the anniversary had prompted an outpouring of support for Harper’s family, colleagues and the wider policing community from people across the Thames Valley and beyond.

“Our thoughts remain with Andrew’s family and all those who continue to live with that loss every day,” Chief Constable Jason Hogg said.

The petition was organised by the Chair of the Thames Valley Police Federation in relation to the proposed early-release arrangements. Thames Valley Police said it had reached 1,044,860 signatures as of 9am on 17 August 2026.

Earlier in August, Chief Constable Hogg joined the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, other Chief Constables and senior law-enforcement leaders in signing a joint open letter to the Prime Minister. According to the force, the signatories asked the Government to explore lawful options for reviewing the case and highlighted the importance of robust risk assessments when considering the release of serious offenders.

Thames Valley Police said the discussion had raised wider questions about sentencing, the treatment of victims’ families and public confidence in the criminal justice system. These are the views expressed by the force, petition organisers and other signatories; the proposed early-release arrangements remain the subject of public discussion.

The force thanked members of the public for their messages of support and said PC Harper’s service and sacrifice continue to be remembered by colleagues and communities across the region.

Source: Thames Valley Police