Widow of Fallen PC Wins MBE for Campaigning Harper’s Law
Lissie Harper has been honoured with an MBE for her tireless campaign to toughen penalties for those who kill emergency workers on duty. Her husband, PC Andrew Harper, was tragically killed just four weeks after their wedding in Berkshire, August 2019.
Justice Denied Sparks Fierce Campaign
After three men were found guilty of manslaughter—but not murder—in the death of Andrew Harper, Lissie was left devastated. She slammed the verdicts as a “disappointment” that failed to match the “severity and barbarity” of the crime. An open letter calling for a murder retrial was rejected by the Court of Appeal, leaving her fighting for justice.
“I continue to be disappointed by our justice system and the inadequate laws in place,” said Mrs Harper.
With the backing of the Police Federation, Lissie met with senior officials and even the Lord Chancellor. Her campaign reached a turning point in 2021 when then-Home Secretary Priti Patel announced ‘Harper’s Law’—mandating life sentences for anyone who kills an emergency worker while on duty. The legislation was enshrined in the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, which received Royal Assent on April 28, 2022.
Turning Grief into Change
The government praised Mrs Harper’s relentless activism amid her grief. “Her personal campaigning…will benefit other families in the future,” officials said. After the law’s success, Lissie shared her hopes to “find happiness” again, saying, “I know Andrew would want me to be happy.”
MBE Award Highlights Her Incredible Journey
In the 2024 New Year’s Honours list, Mrs Harper was recognised for her achievements. “It’s been a hell of a journey, and Harper’s Law is a huge achievement in honour of my amazing Andrew,” she said.
Though she never sought recognition, the award means a great deal. “I know Andrew would be very proud,” she added, thanking her supportive family, friends, and especially Andrew Fiddler, who helped push through the law.
“Those of you who understand the grief of losing a life partner know that we will never move on but can only aim to move forward in life and turn our heartbreak into something to be proud of.”
Remembering PC Andrew Harper
PC Harper and a colleague were attending to a quad bike theft in Berkshire when the fatal incident occurred, four hours over their shift.
