Debbie Adlam, mother of PC Andrew Harper, appeared on Good Morning Britain to speak out against the prison early release scheme.
PC Andrew Harper’s mum, Debbie Adlam, has spoken out as two of the men involved in the death of her son could be released from prison early.
In 2019, PC Harper was responding to reports of a burglary when the horrific incident unfolded.
In tragic circumstances, his ankles became entangled in a strap attached to a vehicle, which then resulted in him being dragged along country roads for over a mile.
The 28-year-old was declared dead at the scene, despite efforts to save him.
Henry Long, who was driving the vehicle, received a 16-year sentence, while passengers Jessie Cole and Albery Bowers both received a 13-year term for manslaughter.
While Henry won’t be eligible for early release, both Jessie and Albert may get out of prison earlier under the Government’s new initiative, reports the Mirror.
Speaking to Kate Garraway and Adil Ray on Good Morning Britain, Debbie spoke about the potential for Jessie and Albert’s release and how she found out.
Admitting she’s gone through ‘every emotion’, Debbie explained she feels ‘crushed’ knowing they could be let out early, stating that people should serve the sentence they’re supposed to be kept inside.
Sharing that they feel an ‘injustice’ for Andrew, Debbie commented that she now doesn’t feel ‘so alone’, knowing a lot of people are in a similar position as herself.
She told the ITV presenters that there is currently a petition set up, which has received almost 440,000 signatures within two days.
Touching on the moment she learnt about the potential early release, Debbie revealed she received a telephone call.
She explained to the ITV presenters that it happened during her annual update, which comes in a letter, letting her know that she’d find out at the end of August.
However, Debbie revealed that since then, she’s learnt the prisoners were told this, calling it ‘disappointing’ that they had known before the family.
Debbie explained that MP Alex Norris personally called her and Andrew’s wife, letting them know, as she commented: “I think he knew there was going to be a backlash on this.”
Touching on how things are now, Debbie shared that society needs more support and confessed she’s not proud of the country. However, praised how proud she is of those speaking out and supporting her and others impacted.
The early prisoner release scheme has been proposed to reduce prison overcrowding, however, it’s since caused mass outrage with the public.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has excluded those convicted of rape, serious child sexual offences and grooming from being eligable for early release.
Speaking to BBC Radio 4 this week, Justice Secretary Alex Norris explained he has apologised to PC Harper’s wife Lissie and Debbie.
Good Morning Britain is available to watch on ITV weekdays from 6am.
