The decision to release the man who murdered off-duty Hertfordshire Police officer PC Frank Mason has sparked widespread anger and disbelief among police officers and the wider community.

James Hurley, who was convicted of PC Mason’s murder during an armed robbery in Hemel Hempstead in 1988, has been cleared for release by the Parole Board following a hearing last October. The decision has been met with outrage by Hertfordshire Police Federation and policing figures across the country.

Hurley was sentenced to life imprisonment in 1989 but escaped custody during a prison transfer in 1994. He remained on the run for 13 years before being recaptured in the Netherlands in 2007, where he was found during a police raid on suspected drug dealers.

Reacting to the news, Hertfordshire Police Federation Chair Luke Mitchell said:

“We are shocked, disgusted and in disbelief to hear that Hurley has been released from prison. It is absolutely unpalatable, and I know this news will send shockwaves through all officers — not just in Hertfordshire, but across the country, both serving and retired.”

Mitchell added that Hurley’s release is a “betrayal” of the policing family and the memory of PC Mason, who was gunned down while trying to stop an armed robbery while off duty.

“What Hurley did is unforgivable. This man murdered an off-duty police officer. What message does this send to the policing family? What message does this send to Frank’s family? This is the ultimate betrayal,” he said.

The Federation Chair also condemned the justice system for allowing the release of a convicted police killer who had also escaped custody and evaded justice for over a decade.

“It makes a mockery of the whole system to hear such a person has been released from jail,” he said. “This was a tragic, horrifying case, and for it to be even considered, let alone agreed, that Hurley is released from prison is an outrage.”

PC Frank Mason’s legacy continues to be honoured by Hertfordshire Police through the Frank Mason Memorial Award, presented annually to an officer who has demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism and selflessness in protecting the community.

Mitchell concluded:

“As we digest this news, our thoughts are with the family of Frank, especially his wife, Jill. I’d like to take this opportunity to stress that Frank’s heroism, bravery and courage will never be forgotten.”

The Parole Board’s decision is likely to intensify calls for tougher policies regarding the release of individuals convicted of murdering police officers.