PC Andrew Harper's widow to tell story in new ITV documentary

Lissie Harper, whose husband PC Andrew Harper was killed in August 2019, will speak to ITV's legendary broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald about her story and the effect her husband's killing has had on her life.

28-year-old PC Harper was caught in a strap attached to the back of a car used in the theft of a quad bike near Sulhamstead, near Aldermaston, on August 15, 2019.

Andrew and Lissie Harper. Pics from Thames Valley Police Federation.

Henry Long, 19, was jailed for 16 years after he admitted manslaughter, whilst Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers were given 13 years each after being convicted of manslaughter.

The trio were cleared of murder by a jury at the Old Bailey.

Additionally, Thomas King, from Bramley, was jailed for two years after admitting conspiracy to steal a quad bike, although he was not directly involved in the incident which led to PC Harper's death.

The documentary will see Mrs Harper share memories of her relationship with her husband, as well as her campaign proposing a life sentence for anyone who kills an emergency worker whilst committing a crime.

Sir Trevor will also speak to detectives who investigated the case, as well as members of the press and friends and family.

Mrs Harper said: “Harper’s Law will mean that a person found guilty of killing a police officer, firefighter, nurse, doctor, paramedic or prison officer, as a direct result of a crime they have committed, would be jailed for life.

Lissie Harper, the widow of Pc Andrew Harper, at the Home Office in central London after meeting with Home Secretary Priti Patel. PA Photo. Picture date: Monday November 2, 2020. This was the second meeting between the pair on the push for Harper's Law,

“This means that a life sentence would be imposed, asking for a minimum term in prison. Harper’s Law would provide a strong deterrent and an appropriate punishment for committing such a heinous crime.

“I know that if he could, Andrew would be right by my side fighting for this law change… he would want me to get this law passed for all who deserve it.

“I’ve never sought the limelight but I recognise being in the public eye is important to highlight why this law change is desperately needed.

Andrew and Lissie Harper. Pics from Thames Valley Police Federation.

“I think it’s important for the public to see all the hard work that goes into our campaign as part of this documentary. And I am really pleased to be sharing my story with ITV and Sir Trevor McDonald as I strive to achieve Harper’s Law.”

Sir Trevor added: “The tragic events that happened around the death of Pc Andrew Harper shocked the nation.

“To have the opportunity to meet Lissie and hear the impact of his death on her and her family, and report on her ambition to create lasting change, compelled me to be a part of this film.”

The one-off film has the working title The Killing of Pc Harper: A Wife’s Story.