PCC Joy Allen welcomes the Government's decision to block early release of offenders convicted of unlawful killing

Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen has welcomed the Government's decision to block the early release of offenders convicted of unlawful killing, which includes death by dangerous driving, describing it as a victory for victims, bereaved families and common sense.

The decision follows mounting anger from the public, supported by the Chief Constables of every force, that the killers of PC Andrew Harper would be released significantly earlier than planned.

Recognised nationally as a road safety expert, Joy Allen has been campaigning for the Government to recognise the devastating impact of fatal road crime and ensure that those responsible for taking a life behind the wheel are treated with the seriousness their offences deserve.  

Just last week she lobbied Lord Justice and Secretary of State for Justice, Alex Norris MP once again, highlighting her concerns that Liam Bowes would be subject to early release under the plans.

The potential early release of Liam Bowes was causing significant concern for the family of Abi Eggleston, the 22-year-old Durham University student who was killed in a hit-and-run collision in October 2025. Bowes was sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment in March 2026 after being convicted of causing Abi's death and attempting to pervert the course of justice by covering up his actions.

After enduring the loss of their daughter and a lengthy criminal justice process, Abi's family were informed that Bowes could be released far earlier than expected under the Government's early release arrangements, undermining their confidence in a justice system they had trusted when the sentence was imposed.

Under the Government's revised approach, early release arrangements will no longer apply to offenders convicted of death by dangerous driving, and anyone convicted of unlawful killing will also be excluded from the scheme.

Joy Allen said:  "While a car is a part of everyday life for most people, in the wrong hands it can become a lethal weapon. For families whose loved ones have been killed by dangerous, reckless or criminal behaviour on the roads, the consequences are lifelong.

"This is the right decision and one I have been pressing the Government to make. I particularly welcome the fact that PC Harper's killers, whose case became the catalyst for this campaign, will not be eligible for early release. That outcome reflects the concerns raised by bereaved families across the country and the calls I made to ministers and policing leaders to ensure these offenders serve the sentences intended by the courts.

"For too long, families affected by fatal road crime have feared being overlooked. Nothing can bring back a loved one who has been killed by car, but the justice system must recognise the profound and lasting impact these crimes have on those left behind.

"Bereaved families have told me how distressing it was to think that offenders could be released early, despite the immeasurable loss they continue to live with every day. Their voices deserved to be heard and I am pleased the Government has listened.

"This decision sends a clear message that victims matter, that the harm caused by fatal road crime is being taken seriously and that public confidence in the justice system cannot be an afterthought.

"I will continue to stand up for victims and campaign for a criminal justice system that puts their needs, rights and experiences at its heart."

As Police and Crime Commissioner for County Durham and Darlington, she has made supporting victims and their families a central priority of her Police, Crime and Justice Plan, alongside her commitment to making roads safer and reducing the number of people killed or seriously injured on the region's roads.

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